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
Things that are done, it is needless to speak about...things that are past, it is needless to blame.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present and not dwelling on the past.
Confucius suggests that discussing completed actions or blaming past events is futile. Instead of wasting time on what has already been done, we should concentrate on the present and future, which encourages a mindset focused on progress and acceptance rather than regret.
Themes
PresentAcceptancePastFocusMindfulness
In practice
Example use cases
In a team meeting, to encourage focusing on current projects rather than previous mistakes.
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.
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Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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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.
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Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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