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About this quote

What does it mean?
Before blaming others, consider excuses; only mediocre minds focus on small faults, while great minds address the whole or improve without blame.
In plain terms
Look for excuses before blaming; small minds nitpick, great minds solve.
What can you take from it?
Blaming small faults signals mediocrity.

Where it applies

  • conflict resolution
  • leadership
  • peer review

Putting it to work

  • practicing charity before critique
  • focusing on systems not individuals

Questions to consider

  • Do you focus on small faults?
  • What would solving the whole look like?

Another view

It may excuse genuine harm in the name of greatness.

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