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About this quote

What does it mean?
Acknowledging flaws is useful, but limiting them prevents excess.
In plain terms
Accept your weaknesses but keep them in check.
What can you take from it?
Manage vices by setting strict limits.

Where it applies

  • personal development
  • habit formation
  • ethics

Putting it to work

  • track bad habits
  • set limits on indulgence

Questions to consider

  • Which vices can you limit?
  • Why two specifically?

Another view

Some vices cannot be safely limited.

More from Bertolt Brecht

  1. Why be a man when you can be a success?

    Permalink to quote #73
  2. There are times when you have to choose between being a human and having good taste.

    Permalink to quote #75
  3. In the contradiction lies the hope.

    Permalink to quote #72

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  2. Usez, n'abusez point; le sage ainsi l'ordonne. Je fuis egalement Epictete et Petrone. L'abstinence ou l'exces ne fit jamais d'heureux.

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  3. The choicest pleasures of life lie within the ring of moderation.

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