“Tomorrow, every Fault is to be amended; but that Tomorrow never comes.”
- January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790
- American
- Polymath, Founding Father of the United States, Inventor, Diplomat, Writer
table of contents
Quote
“Tomorrow, every Fault is to be amended; but that Tomorrow never comes.”
Explanation
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin warns against the dangers of procrastination, especially in the context of self-improvement and moral responsibility. The phrase “every Fault is to be amended” implies a promise or intention to correct one’s errors. However, Franklin immediately undercuts this with “but that Tomorrow never comes,” pointing out the all-too-common human tendency to delay action indefinitely.
Franklin, a fierce advocate of discipline and self-betterment, included this idea in his writings to stress the importance of acting in the present. During the 18th century, as Enlightenment ideas flourished, Franklin urged individuals to take charge of their lives through reason, planning, and practical virtue. This quote reflects his view that good intentions mean little without timely action.
Today, this insight remains relevant in personal and professional settings. People often say they’ll start exercising, apologize, or begin a project “tomorrow,” but without concrete steps, that future remains abstract and unreachable. Franklin reminds us that the only time we truly possess is now, and meaningful change begins with immediate effort, not distant plans.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
