Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
As in the case of making a mound, if, before the very last basketful, I stop, then I shall have stopped. As in the case of leveling the ground, if, though tipping only one basketful, I am going forward, then I shall be making progress.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of perseverance and consistent effort in achieving goals.
Confucius highlights the idea that true progress comes from continued effort, even if it seems small. Stopping just before completing a task signifies failure, while taking even a small but consistent step forward indicates improvement and movement towards a goal.
Themes
ProgressEffortPersistenceGoalsSuccess
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to inspire a team during a challenging project at work.
More from Confucius
All quotes βEarnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
ConfuciusRead
When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
ConfuciusRead
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
ConfuciusRead
The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
ConfuciusRead
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
ConfuciusRead
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