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, when resting in safety, does not forget that danger may come. When in a state of security he does not forget the possibility of ruin. When all is orderly, he does not forget that disorder may come. Thus his person is not endangered, and his States and all their clans are preserved.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Stay vigilant and aware of potential dangers, even in times of safety.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and preparedness. It suggests that a wise person remains alert to the possibility of challenges and disruptions, even in moments of peace and order. By acknowledging possible dangers, one can better protect themselves and others, ensuring stability and security.
Themes
VigilancePreparednessWisdomSafetyRisk
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership seminar, this quote could be used to underline the importance of risk management.
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
Similar quotes
It has become quite a common proverb that in wine there is truth (In Vino Veritas).
Pliny The ElderRead
Entrepreneurs spend an inordinate amount of time inside of our own heads - thinking, analyzing, agonizing and obsessing over every little detail of our business. Sometimes, we need a break from ourselves. Meditation is a chance to let the thinking mind rest.
Lewis HowesRead
It's unbelievable how much you don't know about the game you've been playing all your life.
Mickey MantleRead
I have an ambition to write a great book, but that's really a competition with myself. I've noticed that a lot of young writers, people in all media, want to be famous but they don't really want to do anything. I can't think of anything less worth striving for than fame.
Zadie SmithRead
Not the senses I have but what I do with them is my kingdom.
Helen KellerRead
Why is discipline important? Discipline teaches us to operate by principle rather than desire. Saying no to our impulses (even the ones that are not inherently sinful) puts us in control of our appetites rather than vice versa. It deposes our lust and permits truth, virtue, and integrity to rule our minds instead.
John F. MacarthurRead