This quote emphasizes the complexity and rarity of the skills, attributes, and qualities required to be an effective and successful military leader. It suggests that it’s not enough to have a single quality, like bravery or strategic acumen; a great general must have a broad range of abilities. These might include tactical skill, leadership charisma, physical stamina, psychological resilience, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. Each of these qualities is hard to cultivate, and the combination of all of them in a single person is even rarer.

This quote also implies that each general, or leader, has his or her own unique combination of strengths and weaknesses. This is a reminder that we should not expect perfection from our leaders but should value and leverage their unique talents and abilities.

Applying this quote to today’s world, we can see its relevance in various fields, not just in the military. For example, in business, a successful CEO needs a diverse set of skills including strategic thinking, people management, financial acumen, and an understanding of the market. Similarly, a successful politician needs to understand policy, communicate effectively, inspire followers, and navigate complex political landscapes.

In terms of personal development, this quote encourages us to recognize and develop our own unique combination of skills and talents. It suggests that we should strive for well-roundedness, not perfection in a single area. It also reminds us that everyone has weaknesses or areas for improvement, and that’s okay. The key is to understand our own strengths and weaknesses, and to continually work on developing and refining our skills.