Never seem wiser, nor more learned, than the people you are with. Wear your learning, like your watch, in a private pocket: and do not merely pull it out and strike it; merely to show that you have one.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Common sense (which, in truth, is very uncommon) is the best sense I know of: abide by it; it will counsel you best.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Common sense is rare but invaluable; trust it for guidance.
This quote by Lord Chesterfield emphasizes the rarity and importance of common sense in decision-making. He suggests that while many may overlook the practical wisdom inherent in everyday situations, following this intuitive understanding can lead to the best outcomes in life.
Themes
Common SenseWisdomGuidanceDecision MakingPracticality
In practice
Example use cases
In a business meeting when discussing strategies, this quote can be used to remind colleagues to rely on straightforward, practical solutions.
More from Lord Chesterfield
All quotes βIf you can once engage people's pride, love, pity, ambition on your side, you need not fear what their reason can do against you.
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Merit and knowledge will not gain hearts, though they will secure them when gained.
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Firmness of purpose is one of the best instruments of success.
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Wit is so shining a quality that everybody admires it; most people aim at it, all people fear it, and few love it unless in themselves. A man must have a good share of wit himself to endure a great share of it in another.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Knowledge may give weight, but accomplishments give luster, and many more people see than weigh.
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