To do anything in this world worth doing, we must not stand back shivering and thinking of the cold and danger, but jump in, and scramble through as well as we can.
Sydney SmithRead
Find fault when you must find fault in private, and if possible sometime after the offense, rather than at the time.
Interpretation
What this quote means
It is better to address someone's mistakes privately and at a later time than to criticize them publicly and immediately.
In this quote, Sydney Smith emphasizes the importance of tact and discretion when addressing the shortcomings of others. Critiquing someone in private not only shows respect for their dignity but also allows for a more constructive conversation to take place after emotions have settled, leading to better understanding and resolution of the issue at hand.
Themes
CritiqueDiscretionRespectCommunicationRelationships
In practice
Example use cases
A manager might use this quote when discussing performance reviews with their team.
More from Sydney Smith
All quotes βA comfortable house is a great source of happiness. It ranks immediately after health and a good conscience.
Sydney SmithRead
Do not try to push your way through to the front ranks of your profession; do not run after distinctions and rewards; but do your utmost to find an entry into the world of beauty.
Sydney SmithRead
Errors, to be dangerous, must have a great deal of truth mingled with them. It is only from this alliance that they can ever obtain an extensive circulation.
Sydney SmithRead
we know nothing of tomorrow, our business is to be good and happy today
Sydney SmithRead
Find fault, when you must find fault, in private, if possible; and some time after the offense, rather than at the time.
Sydney SmithRead
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