“How should a man be capable of grooming his own horse, or of furbishing his own spear and helmet, if he allows himself to become unaccustomed to tending even his own person, which is his most treasured belonging?”
- July 20, 356 BC – June 10, 323 BC
- Born in Macedonia
- King of Macedonia
- Established a vast empire and spread Hellenistic culture
Quote
“How should a man be capable of grooming his own horse, or of furbishing his own spear and helmet, if he allows himself to become unaccustomed to tending even his own person, which is his most treasured belonging?”
Explanation
In this quote, Alexander the Great underscores the importance of self-discipline and personal care. He draws a parallel between maintaining external possessions, such as a horse, spear, or helmet, and the necessity of caring for one’s own body and well-being. Alexander suggests that if a man cannot properly tend to himself—the most important thing he owns—he will be ill-equipped to care for other important aspects of his life. This emphasizes the idea that self-care, physical health, and personal upkeep are foundational to success in any other domain, be it leadership, combat, or daily life. It speaks to the balance between mind, body, and responsibility, highlighting that true strength comes from within, and one must first take care of themselves before effectively managing external tasks.
Historically, Alexander was known for his physical fitness and discipline, qualities he likely valued as essential for maintaining his leadership and military effectiveness. His rigorous lifestyle, including his ability to endure the hardships of war and lead his men through difficult campaigns, may have led him to understand that a leader must first be capable of self-maintenance. This philosophy would also have extended to the broader concept of leadership by example—if a leader fails to care for their own health or well-being, they cannot expect others to follow their example or trust their leadership.
In modern contexts, this quote serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care in both physical and mental health. In today’s fast-paced world, individuals often neglect their own needs in pursuit of professional success or external achievements. However, as this quote suggests, the foundation of personal success and the ability to lead or excel in any field lies in attending to oneself—whether through physical health, mental well-being, or personal development. By investing in self-care and cultivating discipline, individuals are better equipped to face challenges and achieve their goals effectively.
