A man may well bring a horse to water, But he cannot make him drink without he will.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- You can offer opportunities, but you cannot force someone to take them.
- In plain terms
- Provide help, but people must choose to use it.
- What can you take from it?
- Offer guidance but respect individual agency.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When did you force someone to act?
- How do you encourage instead?
Another view
External pressure can sometimes motivate action effectively.
More from John Heywood
To rob Peter and pay Paul.
Permalink to quote #29 Rome was not built in one day.
Permalink to quote #31 Beggars should be no choosers.
Permalink to quote #28
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