"In these situations, **talent is not the most sought-after characteristic. Grace and poise are, because these two attributes precede the opportunity to deploy any other skill**. We must possess, as [[Voltaire]] once explained about the secret to the great military success of the first [[Duke of Marlborough]], that “**tranquil courage in the midst of tumult and serenity of soul in danger, which the English call a cool head**.”" ([Location 420](https://readwise.io/to_kindle?action=open&asin=B00IX49OS4&location=420)) --- **Tags** -- [[quotes]], [[leadership]], [[perceived-threats]], [[anxiety]], [[fud]], [[fear]], [[mindfulness]], **Source** -- [[202409180132 - B - The Obstacle is the Way]]