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About this quote

What does it mean?
Do not follow general rules for living unless they favor virtue; do not set strict desires for what you may need tomorrow.
In plain terms
Avoid rigid generalities; stay flexible to meet future needs.
What can you take from it?
Stay flexible with rules so you can meet future needs.

Where it applies

  • life planning
  • setting boundaries
  • moral choices

Putting it to work

  • review rules often
  • focus on core values
  • allow exceptions

Questions to consider

  • Which rules are rigid?
  • What values guide you?

Another view

Some structure and consistency are needed for discipline.

More from Baltasar Gracian

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  2. Unica regla de agradar: coger el apetito picado con el hambre con que quedo.

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  3. No es favor del Principe, sino pecho, el comunicarlo. Quiebran muchos el espejo porque les acuerda la fealdad. No puede ver al que le pudo ver.

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