Common sense (which, in truth, is very uncommon) is the best sense I know of: abide by it; it will counsel you best.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Never seem wiser, nor more learned, than the people you are with. Wear your learning, like your watch, in a private pocket: and do not merely pull it out and strike it; merely to show that you have one.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Value humility over arrogance in conversations and interactions with others.
This quote emphasizes the importance of humility and the idea that one should not flaunt their knowledge or intelligence in social situations. It suggests that wisdom is most effective when it is shared naturally and not used to elevate oneself above others. By comparing knowledge to a watch that should be privately kept, it underscores the value of discretion and the idea that true wisdom is reflected in behavior rather than boasting.
Themes
WisdomHumilityLearningKnowledgeDiscretion
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting, when discussing strategies, use this quote to remind everyone to listen more than to showcase their opinions.
More from Lord Chesterfield
All quotes →If you can once engage people's pride, love, pity, ambition on your side, you need not fear what their reason can do against you.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Merit and knowledge will not gain hearts, though they will secure them when gained.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Firmness of purpose is one of the best instruments of success.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Wit is so shining a quality that everybody admires it; most people aim at it, all people fear it, and few love it unless in themselves. A man must have a good share of wit himself to endure a great share of it in another.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Knowledge may give weight, but accomplishments give luster, and many more people see than weigh.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
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