“Never contract friendship with a man that is not better than thyself.”
- 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.
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Quote
“Never contract friendship with a man that is not better than thyself.”
Explanation
In this saying, Confucius advises us to form friendships with people who can elevate and inspire us. By seeking friends who possess qualities we admire—whether wisdom, kindness, integrity, or resilience—we create relationships that foster growth and self-improvement. For Confucius, the purpose of friendship is not only companionship but also mutual development, and a friend who challenges us to be better enriches our character and outlook.
This wisdom is especially relevant today, as the people we surround ourselves with greatly influence our mindset, choices, and habits. Friends who embody positive traits and high standards encourage us to cultivate those same qualities within ourselves. For example, a friend who is compassionate might inspire us to approach others with empathy, while a friend who is disciplined can motivate us to pursue our goals with greater dedication. On the other hand, friendships that lack mutual respect or positive influence may hold us back or even lead us toward negative behaviors.
Confucius’s words remind us that meaningful friendships contribute to our personal growth. By choosing friends who embody values we respect and aspire to, we create relationships that help us reach our potential. This approach fosters a life filled with inspiration, support, and constant improvement, as we build connections that not only enrich our present but also guide us toward a better future.
