“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”
- 551 BC – 479 BC
- Han ethnicity
- Philosopher, educator, politician
- Known as the founder of Confucianism, he had a major impact on Chinese culture and the whole of East Asia through his teachings on ethics, morality, and politics.
Quote
“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”
Explanation
In this saying, Confucius highlights the importance of perseverance and consistency in the pursuit of one’s goals. He suggests that progress, no matter how slow, is valuable as long as we continue moving forward. For Confucius, success is less about speed and more about steadiness and determination. By embracing a steady approach, we cultivate resilience and ultimately reach our destination, even if the journey takes time.
This perspective is especially relevant today, where the pressure to achieve quickly can sometimes lead to frustration or burnout. Whether it’s in personal growth, career advancement, or skill development, the path to success often includes setbacks, detours, and slow progress. For example, someone learning a new language or skill might feel discouraged by the pace of improvement. However, as Confucius suggests, what truly matters is the commitment to keep going, regardless of the speed.
Confucius’s wisdom encourages us to view progress as a journey rather than a race. By focusing on persistence and consistency, we build the strength and patience necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve meaningful results. This approach fosters a sense of inner resilience and patience, helping us to stay committed to our goals and find fulfillment in steady, enduring progress.
