Mind
10 life lessons from Confucius
For 2,500 years, Chinese teacher, philosopher and politician Confucius has been a source of inspiration for people around the world seeking guidance and meaning in their lives. His philosophical movement, Confucianism, emphasises morality, honesty, the importance of social relationships and the belief that man is fundamentally good and capable of changing, evolving and improving. Here are 10 lessons we can all learn from one of China’s most iconic historical figures.
- Go beyond the surface. “Everything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it.”
- Never give up. “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”
- Failure isn’t the end. “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
- Always challenge yourself. “Never form a friendship with a man who is not better than you.”
- Follow your dreams, no matter what it takes. “When it is obvious that goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, but adjust the action steps.”
- Everyone has wisdom to share. “If I am walking with two other men, each of them will serve as my teacher. I will pick out the good points of the one and imitate them and the bad points of the other and correct them in myself.”
- Always take the high road. “If they spit at you behind your back, it means you’re ahead of them.”
- Embrace getting older. “Old age, believe me, is a good and pleasant thing. It is true you are gently shouldered off the stage, but then you are given such a comfortable front stall as spectator.”
- Never do anything half-heartedly. “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.”
- If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all. “Silence is a true friend who never betrays.”
Tell us in the comments below, what’s your favourite quote?
Related links:
How to build self-discipline in 10 days
7 “bad” habits that are actually good for you