“People in their handlings of affairs often fail when they are about to succeed. If one remains as careful at the end as he was at the beginning, there will be no failure.”
- 571 BC? – 470 BC?
- Born in China
- Philosopher
- Founder of Taoism, author of the Tao Te Ching and systematized Taoist thought
Quote
“People in their handlings of affairs often fail when they are about to succeed. If one remains as careful at the end as he was at the beginning, there will be no failure.”
Explanation
This quote from Laozi highlights the importance of consistency and perseverance throughout the course of any endeavor. Laozi suggests that success is often undermined by complacency or carelessness as a project or goal nears completion. At the beginning of an undertaking, people often approach it with great focus, effort, and attention to detail. However, as they near the finish line, there can be a tendency to become overconfident or to slack off, which can lead to failure. Laozi’s wisdom teaches that in order to truly succeed, one must maintain the same level of careful attention and dedication from start to finish. This approach ensures that success is achieved and sustained, rather than lost at the last moment due to neglect or a lack of discipline.
In modern life, this quote is especially relevant in the context of project management, personal development, and goal achievement. Whether working on a professional project, building a business, or pursuing personal goals like fitness or education, people often see the greatest risk of failure near the final stages. Procrastination, loss of focus, or overconfidence can prevent a person from completing their goals effectively. By maintaining the same level of commitment and care toward the end as at the start, individuals are more likely to achieve lasting success. Laozi’s message encourages consistency in effort, reminding us that the journey is just as important as the destination.
This principle also applies to relationships and leadership, where maintaining attention to detail and careful consideration throughout the entire course of interaction or decision-making can prevent misunderstandings and failure. By staying engaged and careful, especially at critical moments, we are more likely to sustain success and avoid the pitfalls that arise from complacency or distraction. Laozi’s wisdom encourages a mindful approach to all areas of life, where the same level of diligence that brought us to the brink of success should be carried through until the very end.
