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What do you want to avoid? Such an easy answer: sloth and unreliability. If you're unreliable it doesn't matter what your virtues are. You're going to crater immediately. Doing what you have faithfully engaged to do should be an automatic part of your conduct. You want to avoid sloth and unreliability.
Charlie Munger
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the importance of reliability and diligence over mere virtue.

Charlie Munger highlights the significance of being dependable and hardworking in one's endeavors. He suggests that qualities like sloth and unreliability can overshadow any virtues one may have; if you fail to follow through on commitments, it can lead to failure, regardless of your innate goodness. Therefore, cultivating reliable behaviors and a strong work ethic is essential for success.

Themes

ReliabilityDiligenceWork EthicCommitmentSloth

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech to employees about the importance of work ethic.

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Quote by Charlie Munger | QuoteProject