Cultural and Historical Reflections, Human nature and relationships, Humour and wit, Leadership and motivation, Popular wisdom
A friend recently reminded me of the African proverb,
“don’t poke a lion’s tail,”
meaning:
“Only raise a topic if you’re sure you can handle it or are fully prepared for the challenge.”
Even before I heard this saying, I have always lived by the underlying principle: be prepared and never allow yourself to be taken by surprise.
For example, I always advise my colleagues and partners that in any negotiation—without exception—you should NEVER ask a question unless you already know the answer.
Do not let yourself be surprised, do not be unprepared.
If you are, it is wiser to stay silent and keep your thoughts to yourself!