But the ability to articulate what you are doing, to be clear about it, and to stick to it is, I think, the essence of political leadership.

Meaning

The quote reflects a simple truth about life. It conveys that life rarely follows a perfect plan, while hinting that the present moment deserves attention.

Theme

The concept of life has always been central to human experience. People explore it because life affects every decision we make. Such quotes show that being present enriches experience.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Chris Patten. This one stands out due to its focus on life.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
life rarely follows a perfect plan.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about life, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we focus on the present moment.