James Stockdale

Quotes are word for word from the source.

• Adaptability under pressure

  “I had become a man detached-not aloof but detached-able to throw out the book without the slightest hesitation when it no longer matched the external circumstances.”

  Our noteStockdale reflects on how philosophy changed his approach to military leadership.

• Merit over hierarchy

  “I was able to put juniors over seniors without embarrassment when their wartime instincts were more reliable.”

  Our noteHe discusses breaking away from set procedures in military organizations.

• Process over outcome

  “The competition, the game, was the thing. The ball was "used" to make the game possible, but it in itself is not of any value that would justify falling on your sword for it.”

  Our noteStockdale uses a ball-game analogy to explain the Stoic view of life's pursuits.

• True character test

  “The test of character is not 'hanging in there' when the light at the end of the tunnel is expected, but performance of duty and persistence of example when the situation rules out the possibility of the light ever coming.”

  Our noteHe defines resilience during an interview about his experiences.