An intelligent mind is an inquiring mind. It is not satisfied with explanation, with conclusions. Nor is it a mind that believes, because belief is again another form of conclusion.
Bruce LeeRead
A good martial artist does not become tense, but ready. Not thinking, yet not dreaming. Ready for whatever may come. When the opponent expands, I contract; and when he contracts, I expand. And when there is an opportunity, "I" do not hit, "it" hits all by itself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Being adaptable and poised is essential in martial arts and life.
This quote by Bruce Lee emphasizes the importance of mental readiness and adaptability in martial arts, which can be applied to many aspects of life. It suggests that a skilled martial artist maintains composure and is always prepared for any situation, illustrating how awareness and fluidity in response can lead to success without forced effort.
Themes
Martial ArtsAdaptabilityReadinessOpportunityComposure
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to inspire athletes before a competition.
More from Bruce Lee
All quotes →There’s only one basic principle of self-defense- you must apply the most effective weapon, as soon as possible, to the most vulnerable target.
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Do not deny the classical approach, simply as a reaction, or you will have created another pattern and trapped yourself there.
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Do not allow negative thoughts to enter your mind for they are the weeds that strange confidence.
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More and more I believe in the fact that you have two hands and two legs, and the thing is how to make good use of yourself - and that's about it.
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Because one does not want to be disturbed, to be made uncertain, he establishes a pattern of conduct, of thought, a pattern of relationships to man. He then becomes a slave to the pattern and takes the pattern to be the real thing.
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