This noble ensample to his shepe he yaf,- That first he wrought, and afterwards he taught.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Leadership is best demonstrated by doing work first before teaching others how to do it.
- In plain terms
- Show people how to work before telling them.
- What can you take from it?
- Lead by example before teaching.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you learn better by example or instruction?
- How do you lead a team?
Another view
Sometimes teaching before practice is necessary for safety.
More from Geoffrey Chaucer
Wide was his parish, and houses fer asonder.
Permalink to quote #24 But Cristes lore, and his apostles twelve, He taught; but first he folwed it himselve.
Permalink to quote #26 For gold in phisike is a cordial; Therefore he loved gold in special.
Permalink to quote #23
Related quotes
Of right and wrong he taught Truths as refined as ever Athens heard; And (strange to tell!) he practised what he preached.
John ArmstrongJohn Armstrong quote #1 An instructor should exemplify the things he seeks to teach. It will be of great advantage if you yourself can do all you ask of your students and more.
Bruce LeeBruce Lee quote #13 It is a trite but true observation, that examples work more forcibly on the mind than precepts.
Henry FieldingHenry Fielding quote #18