Although men are accused of not knowing their own weakness, yet perhaps as few know their own strength. It is in men as in soils, where sometimes there is a vein of gold, which the owner knows not of.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People often overlook their own strengths just as they overlook weaknesses.
- In plain terms
- Many do not know what they are good at even though they know what they are bad at.
- What can you take from it?
- Self-awareness includes recognizing hidden strengths.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What strengths do you overlook in yourself?
- How do you discover your true talents?
Another view
It assumes everyone has a hidden vein of gold to find.
More from Jonathan Swift
Men are contented to be laughed at for their wit, but not for their folly.
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