Work ethic is important because, unlike intelligence, athleticism, charisma, or any other natural attribute, it's a choice.
Mike RoweRead
When ambitious desires arise in thy heart, recall the days of extremity thou has passed through.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Reflecting on past hardships can help curb excessive ambitions.
This quote by Tokugawa Ieyasu suggests that when we feel overwhelming ambition or desire, it is wise to remember the challenges and difficulties we have overcome in the past. Such reflections can ground us, reminding us of our resilience and the lessons learned through adversity, which can influence our actions and desires in a more balanced way.
Themes
AmbitionDesireReflectionResilienceAdversity
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speaker might use this quote to encourage people in a workshop about overcoming challenges.
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