“Politics is like football; if you see daylight, go through the hole.”
- May 29, 1917 – November 22, 1963
- American
- Politician
- As the 35th President of the United States, he overcame the Cuban Missile Crisis and averted nuclear war, and promoted the Apollo program, laying the foundation for American space exploration.
Quote
“Politics is like football; if you see daylight, go through the hole.”
Explanation
In this quote, John F. Kennedy draws a parallel between politics and football, illustrating that, in both, success often depends on seizing opportunities as they arise. “If you see daylight, go through the hole” means that when a window of opportunity appears, whether in the political realm or elsewhere, you should act decisively and take advantage of it before it disappears. The metaphor underscores the importance of timing, strategy, and quick action in navigating complex situations, particularly in politics. Just as a football player must be aware of the field, assess the situation, and make the most of an opening, a politician must be able to spot opportunities and take action when conditions are favorable.
Kennedy’s use of the football metaphor also reflects the competitive and dynamic nature of politics. Like a football game, politics often involves maneuvering, positioning, and quick decisions that can have significant consequences. The “hole” in this analogy represents an opening—an opportunity to advance, whether it’s passing a piece of legislation, responding to a national crisis, or capitalizing on political momentum. In his time, Kennedy faced numerous challenges, from the Cuban Missile Crisis to the Civil Rights Movement, and his leadership demonstrated a keen awareness of when to press forward with bold actions and when to wait for the right moment.
In modern political contexts, Kennedy’s advice is still relevant: politicians and leaders need to be alert and ready to take advantage of opportunities—be it in negotiations, public policy, or international relations. Just as in football, where a player must be prepared to act when the defense opens up, politicians must be prepared to move quickly and decisively when they see a chance to advance their agenda or resolve critical issues. The quote serves as a reminder that in both politics and life, waiting too long or hesitating when the opportunity arises can result in missed chances or being left behind.
