Men's thoughts, are much according to their inclination; their discourse and speeches, according to their learning and infused opinions; but their deeds, are after as they have been accustomed.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Thoughts follow desires
- In plain terms
- We think what we want, speak what we know, but act how we are used to.
- What can you take from it?
- Habit drives actions more than thoughts or words.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What habits drive your daily actions?
- Do your words match your deeds?
Another view
Sometimes actions can align with conscious choice rather than just habit.
More from Francis Bacon
Nature is often hidden; sometimes overcome; seldom extinguished.
Permalink to quote #120 If a man look sharply and attentively, he shall see Fortune; for though she is blind, she is not invisible.
Permalink to quote #122 So ambitious men, if they find the way open for their rising, and still get forward, they are rather busy than dangerous; but if they be checked in their desir…
Permalink to quote #119
Related quotes
Words and works eat not at one table.
James HowellJames Howell quote #5 A man who waits to believe in action before acting is anything you like, but he's not a man of action. It is as if a tennis player before returning a ball stop…
Georges ClemenceauGeorges Clemenceau quote #18 One will rarely err if extreme actions be ascribed to vanity, ordinary actions to habit, and mean actions to fear.
Friedrich NietzscheFriedrich Nietzsche quote #39