Common sense (which, in truth, is very uncommon) is the best sense I know of: abide by it; it will counsel you best.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Whoever is in a hurry shows that the thing he is about is too big for him.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Being in a hurry often indicates that the task at hand is overwhelming.
This quote by Lord Chesterfield suggests that when someone rushes through their endeavors, it reveals their inability to appropriately handle the complexity or importance of the task. Instead of promoting efficiency, haste may indicate a lack of mastery or confidence in managing the responsibilities associated with the undertaking.
Themes
HurryPatienceInefficiencyResponsibilityMastery
In practice
Example use cases
In a meeting about project timelines, one might say, 'Remember, as Lord Chesterfield said, 'Whoever is in a hurry shows that the thing he is about is too big for him.' Let's take the time we need to get it right.'
More from Lord Chesterfield
All quotes βNever 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
If you can once engage people's pride, love, pity, ambition on your side, you need not fear what their reason can do against you.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Merit and knowledge will not gain hearts, though they will secure them when gained.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Firmness of purpose is one of the best instruments of success.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
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
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