"Learning without thought is labor lost thought without learning is perilous."

Work

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Insight & Reflection

This reflection on work by Confucius resonates across generations. It highlights a fundamental truth about human nature: our continuous search for meaning in work is what ultimately defines our character and our path forward.

About Confucius

Confucius, born Kong Qiu, was a Chinese philosopher of the Spring and Autumn period who is traditionally considered the paragon of Chinese sages. Much of the shared cultural heritage of the Sinosphere originates in the philosophy and teachings of Confucius. His philosophical teachings, called Confucianism, emphasized personal and governmental morality, harmonious social relationships, righteousness, kindness, sincerity, and a ruler's responsibilities to lead by virtue.

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Editorial Note: This quote is curated and fact-checked by the ShortQuote Editorial Team. Verified Literature Specialist.

More by Confucius

"Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without."

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"Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors."

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"Without feelings of respect, what is there to distinguish men from beasts?"

— Confucius
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"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest Second, by imitation, which is easiest and third by experience, which is the bitterest."

— Confucius
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More about Work

"With the theatre, your whole day is geared towards the evening's show, and that's the job. People usually go to work about 9 and come home around 5, or maybe 7."

— Kristin Scott Thomas
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"I take my work seriously but I can't take myself too seriously. I'm in such a crazy privileged position."

— Michael Fassbender
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"They keep the old business. We keep the ongoing business."

— Harvey Weinstein
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"Contrary to popular opinion, the hustle is not a new dance step - it is an old business procedure."

— Fran Lebowitz
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