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
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A wise person is more concerned about their own growth than external validation.
This quote by Confucius highlights the mindset of a superior individual who focuses on personal development rather than seeking recognition or approval from others. It suggests that true wisdom lies in understanding one's limitations and striving to overcome them, rather than being affected by how others perceive one's abilities.
Themes
WisdomSelf-AwarenessGrowthRecognitionAbility
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared in a leadership workshop to encourage personal development over seeking approval.
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
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
ConfuciusRead
An angry man is full of poison.
ConfuciusRead
Similar quotes
Maturity comes not with age but with the acceptance of responsibility. You are only young once but immaturity can last a lifetime!
Edwin Louis ColeRead
Let fools the studious despise,_x000D_ _x000D_ There's nothing lost by being wise.
Jean De La FontaineRead
The reporter wrote with the hope that he would get a by-line in the Times, a testimony to his being alive on that day and all the tomorrows of microfilm
Gay TaleseRead
Tell me what you think and then tell me what the really smart person in the room who disagrees with you thinks.
Aaron SorkinRead
But my lord, when we addressed this issue a few years ago, didn't you argue the other side?" He said, "That's true, but when I get more evidence I sometimes change my mind. What do you do?
John Maynard KeynesRead
The whole point is to discipline the mind.
Swami VivekanandaRead