Thought and theory must precede all salutary action; yet action is nobler in itself than either thought or theory.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Thought must come before action, but acting is more noble than thinking.
- In plain terms
- Think first, but doing is better than just thinking.
- What can you take from it?
- Plan with thought but value action over theory.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you value thinking or doing more?
- How do you balance planning and acting?
Another view
Sometimes action without thought can cause harm.
More from Virginia Woolf
The strongest natures, when they are influenced, submit the most unreservedly: it is perhaps a sign of their strength.
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