This quote by Napoleon Bonaparte suggests that a new government, much like a new leader, must immediately establish itself with a sense of brilliance and awe. The term ‘éclat’ is French for ‘brilliance’ or ‘dazzle’. Essentially, Napoleon is saying that a new government must immediately impress its citizens and the world at large, demonstrating its strength, capabilities, and potential. The moment it loses this brilliance, this sense of awe and admiration, it falls, meaning it loses its influence and power.

This is because the initial impression a government makes can greatly influence public opinion and trust. If the government fails to inspire or impress, it risks losing the support of its citizens, which can lead to instability and potentially its downfall. Therefore, it’s crucial for a new government to establish its competence and vision right from the start.

In today’s world, this quote can be applied to any form of leadership or authority, not just governments. For instance, a newly appointed CEO must immediately establish their vision and competence to gain the trust and support of their employees. If they fail to do so, they risk losing their respect and authority, which can lead to decreased productivity and potentially, the failure of the company.

On a personal development level, this quote can be seen as a call to action to always put forth your best effort, particularly when starting something new. Whether it’s a new job, a new project, or a new relationship, it’s crucial to start strong and make a good first impression. If you lose your ‘éclat’ or brilliance, you risk losing the respect or interest of others. Therefore, always strive to shine and astonish in everything you do.