Confucius Sayings

When you are laboring for others let it be with the same zeal as if it were for yourself.
Confucius

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.
Confucius

I am not bothered by the fact that I am unknown. I am bothered when I do not know others.
Confucius

What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.
Confucius

The man of wisdom is never of two minds; the man of benevolence never worries; the man of courage is never afraid.
Confucius

Study the past if you would define the future.
Confucius

The superior man is satisfied and composed; the mean man is always full of distress.
Confucius

The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.
Confucius

If you reflect within yourself and find nothing to be ashamed of, how could you have anxiety or fear.
Confucius

If you make a mistake and do not correct it, this is called a mistake.
Confucius

When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.
Confucius

If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed; if in terms of ten years, plant trees; if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.
Confucius

The man who asks a question is a fool for a minute, the man who does not ask is a fool for life.
Confucius

Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.
Confucius

Wealth and rank are what men desire, but unless they be obtained in the right way they may not be possessed.
Confucius

No matter how busy you may think you are, you must find time for reading, or surrender yourself to self-chosen ignorance.
Confucius

Don’t complain about the snow on your neighbor’s roof when your own doorstep is unclean.
Confucius

Isn't it a pleasure to consistently study, and apply what you have learned?
Confucius

He who reviews old knowledge and continues to learn new knowledge is fit to teach others.
Confucius

The superior person is calm and composed; the lesser person is continuously worried and distressed.
Confucius

Love of wisdom without a love of learning will be obscured by excessive speculation.
Confucius

If a person is not in the habit of asking, "What is this? What is this? then I cannot do anything for him.
Confucius

A lack of patience in trifling matters might lead to the disruption of great project.
Confucius

Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without. Confucius

Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
Confucius

Base yourself in loyalty and trust. Don't be companion with those who are not your moral equal. When you make a mistake, don't hesitate to correct it.
Confucius

It is not the failure of others to appreciate your abilities that should trouble you, but rather your failure to appreciate theirs.
Confucius