Robert McNamara Quotes

One sits down first; one thinks afterwards.

I prefer thought to action, an idea to a transaction, contemplation to activity.

People who think too much before they act don't act too much.

You have to really think about things before you do them.

Action and contemplation are very close companions; they live together in one house on equal terms. Martha and Mary are sisters.

Most persons who indulge in second thought don't do much thinking when the subject is presented for first thought.

Time given to thought is the greatest time saver of all.

No one is more liable to make mistakes than he who acts only on reflexion.

We all need to get the balance right between action and reflection. With so many distractions, it is easy to forget to pause and take stock.

I pick and choose my battles, but I overthink everything because I have to think about everything.

Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.

What with making their way and enjoying what they have won, heroes have no time to think. But the sons of heroes - ah, they have all the necessary leisure.

Night is the mother of counsels.

In this world, where everything happens so fast, it's hard to sit back, take the time and contemplate.

A man of action forced into a state of thought is unhappy until he can get out of it.

Before you act, consider; when you have considered, tis fully time to act.

If there is time to reflect, slowing down is likely to be a good idea.

Thought precedes action, action does not always precede thought.

Who reflects too much will accomplish little.

I wish twenty-four hours, a good night's sleep and a day spent in the open air could always elapse before any government officials take action on matters of grave importance.

Sometimes you have to marinate instead of making a quick decision. I appreciate my instincts, but my instincts can be dead wrong. Circumspection can give you time.

Follow effective action with quiet reflection.

Contemplation is wisdom's best nurse.

He who hesitates, meditates horizontally

My motto is, 'What's the hurry?' I'm trying to get it across to the modern world that we need to sit around and think a little bit more.