“Fortune is like the market, where, many times, if you can stay a little, the price will fall.”
- January 22, 1561 – April 9, 1626
- Born in England
- Philosopher, theologian, jurist, politician, aristocrat
- Proposed the “inductive method” that laid the foundations of modern science, and influenced later generations as the founder of British empiricism
Quote
“Fortune is like the market, where, many times, if you can stay a little, the price will fall.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon compares fortune—or luck and opportunity—to a market, where the value of things fluctuates. Just as prices in a market may rise and fall over time, so too do the opportunities and fortunes that come in life. Bacon suggests that patience is key to making wise decisions. If you are willing to wait and not rush into things, you may find that the price—or the value of an opportunity—will decrease or become more favorable. The idea is that fortune, like the market, is unpredictable, but by exercising patience and restraint, you can often benefit from better timing.
Bacon’s view reflects the Renaissance and early modern ideas of prudence and strategic thinking. In a world where quick decisions and hasty actions were often made, Bacon advocated for deliberation and calm assessment. Whether in matters of personal wealth, social interactions, or career decisions, patience and the ability to wait for the right moment could lead to better outcomes.
In modern times, this quote resonates with the principles of investing, business strategy, and personal development. Whether in financial markets, career choices, or even relationships, those who are patient and wait for the right opportunities often find that they are able to make better decisions. Bacon’s insight reminds us that immediate gratification or rushing into things can sometimes lead to poor outcomes, while delaying decisions with a thoughtful and measured approach can allow us to take advantage of more favorable circumstances.
