“Don't tell people how to do things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results”
— George S. Patton
Simplified Meaning:
When you tell someone what you want done but don't give them specific instructions on how to do it, you allow them to use their creativity and intelligence to find the best way to accomplish the task. This approach can lead to surprising and often better results because people feel empowered to come up with their own solutions. For example, imagine a manager who needs a report prepared. Instead of describing every step of the process, they simply state the desired outcome. The employee might come up with a new, more efficient way to gather and present the information, which could improve the overall result. This method fosters trust and encourages innovative thinking. By applying this in daily life or work, you not only get the job done but also help others grow and develop their problem-solving skills.