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About this quote

What does it mean?
Traditions that lack good reasons are often the hardest to change or remove.
In plain terms
Customs without good reasons are hard to quit.
What can you take from it?
Challenge traditions even if they seem pointless.

Where it applies

  • workplace
  • family gatherings
  • policy making

Putting it to work

  • question the rules
  • propose changes
  • review protocols

Questions to consider

  • Why do we do this?
  • What rule needs changing?

Another view

Some traditions hold value beyond logical justification.

More from Mark Twain

  1. 'I once sent a telegram to 12 of my friends saying ALL IS DISCOVERED - FLEE AT ONCE. They all left town immediately.

    Permalink to quote #154
  2. Actions speak louder than words, but not nearly as often.

    Permalink to quote #156
  3. A lie can make it half way around the world before the truth has time to put its boots on. (This has also been attributed to Winston Churchill.)

    Permalink to quote #153

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