Prioritize Root Causes
StrategyA leader should focus on establishing fundamental principles first, as the correct strategy and actions will naturally follow from a solid foundation.
Hall of Masters
Confucius
공자
Philosophy and wisdom traditionsc. 551 BCE to c. 479 BCE
Chinese teacher and philosopher; the Analects
870 records in all
- Principles 266
- Episodes 277
- Quotes 327
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Principles
40 basic records of 266
Principles are our summary of their public statements.
Observe motives not just actions
HiringTo truly understand a person, one must look at what they choose to do, why they do it, and what brings them satisfaction.
1 more supporting quote is in the member records.
Prioritize Substance Over Ornament
ProductA leader must ensure the core product or character is sound before applying external polish or ceremony.
1 more supporting quote is in the member records.
Value Strategy Over Recklessness
HiringAvoid partners who act on impulse or raw courage; choose those who approach problems with caution and strategic skill.
2 more supporting quotes are in the member records.
Maintain Integrity Over Profit
IntegrityPursue wealth only if it can be obtained through righteous means; otherwise, focus on personal values and interests.
2 more supporting quotes are in the member records.
Commit Fully to Progress
FocusSuccess is defined by continuous movement; stopping just short of completion is the same as failing to start.
1 more supporting quote is in the member records.
Hire for Reliability and Action
HiringValue individuals who are true to their word and effective in their work, even if they are not the most brilliant thinkers.
3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.
Prioritize Results Over Personal Loyalty
ManagementJudge a contributor by the scale of the benefit they bring to the public or the organization, rather than their adherence to minor personal codes.
Supporting quotes
"It is no light thing," said he, "to endure poverty uncomplainingly; and a difficult thing to bear wealth without becoming arrogant."
Source Confucius The Wisdom of Confucius: with Critical and Biographical Sketches (opens in a new tab)
Trust based on right principle
MindsetA leader can be deceived by things that appear to be as they should, but they are harder to trap when they stick to right principles.
The Responsibility of the Informed
LearningThose who acquire knowledge or skills first have a moral obligation to instruct and lead those who have not yet reached that level.
1 more supporting quote is in the member records.
Prioritize Competence Over Resources
ManagementA small or poor organization can still thrive if the internal governance and systems are sound.
3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.
Human Capital Is Irreplaceable
HiringThe loss of truly exceptional talent is a tragedy that cannot be compensated for by even a hundred average people.
2 more supporting quotes are in the member records.
The Limit of Strenuous Management
ManagementExcessive focus on productivity and building can turn free workers into slaves and eventually destroy the efficiency of the entire population.
Reflective Action
DecisionsOne must deliberate and reflect before acting to avoid foolish mistakes and future regret.
Humor as a Life Preserver
MindsetA sense of humor prevents a leader from becoming dangerously dogmatic and helps navigate through serious or stressful situations.
Self-Made Identity
CareerWhen faced with a lack of status or background, one should take the initiative to create their own name and reputation through personal merit.
The utility test
DecisionsEvery new idea or action should be tested by asking what good it serves and how it benefits humanity.
Compete in quality, not price
StrategyA business should focus on superior craftsmanship and materials rather than cutting costs to lower prices, as cheapening a product leads to the decline of the brand.
Integrate Work and Play
ProductivityEffective education and productivity come from removing the artificial boundary between work and play to foster natural engagement.
The Power of Supreme Assurance
LeadershipWhen a leader acts with absolute confidence and unbending will, people often follow out of inertia or a desire for the practical benefits offered.
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