Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
The first half of a project is already done; dare to be wise and begin.
In plain terms
Start boldly, the beginning is already half the work.
What can you take from it?
Take the first step with confidence.

Where it applies

  • starting a new venture
  • overcoming hesitation

Putting it to work

  • launch a small pilot
  • commit to a plan

Questions to consider

  • What holds you back from starting?
  • How can you measure progress early?

Another view

The quote assumes progress is linear, which may not hold true.

More from Horace

  1. Nos numerus sumus et fruges consumere nati.

    Permalink to quote #20

  2. Semper avarus eget.

    Permalink to quote #22

  3. Virtus est vitium fugere et sapientia prima stultitia caruisse.

    Permalink to quote #19

Related quotes

  1. Men disappoint me so, I disappoint myself so, yet courage, patience, shuffle the cards ...

    Margaret FullerMargaret Fuller quote #4

  2. All I had to do was do it.

    YanniYanni quote #29

  3. I am suffocated and lost when I have not the bright feeling of progression.

    Margaret FullerMargaret Fuller quote #92