It’s one of the characteristics of a leader that he not doubt for one moment the capacity of the people he’s leading to realize whatever he’s dreaming.

Zander frames leadership as an act of unwavering faith in others. The leader’s “dream” is not merely a private ambition but a shared possibility that must be made believable to the group. By insisting a leader “not doubt for one moment” the people’s capacity, the quote emphasizes confidence as a practical tool: belief shapes expectations, which in turn shapes performance and willingness to attempt difficult change. It also implies an ethical stance—leaders should resist cynicism or condescension and instead treat followers as capable collaborators. The line aligns with Zander’s broader themes about transforming performance through mindset, encouragement, and creating conditions where people can exceed what they thought possible.