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A man who knows how little he knows is well, a man who…

“A man who knows how little he knows is well, a man who knows how much he knows is sick. If, when you see the symptoms, you can tell, Your cure is quick. A sound man knows that sickness makes him sick and before he catches it his cure is quick.” quote by Lao Tzu
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““A man who knows how little he knows is well, a man who knows how much he knows is sick. If, when you see the symptoms, you can tell, Your cure is quick. A sound man knows that sickness makes him sick and before he catches it his cure is quick.””

Lao Tzu

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Recognizing one's own ignorance is healthy; believing one knows everything leads to mental distress, but awareness allows quick recovery.

In simple terms: Knowing little is healthy; thinking you know everything is harmful.

Key Takeaway

Stay humble and seek self‑awareness.

Themes

humility self‑knowledge mental health

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • education
  • mental health counseling
  • leadership development

Key Concepts

Taoism psychology self‑reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you gauge the limits of your knowledge?
  • What practices keep you open to learning?
A Different Perspective

Overconfidence can blind you to needed help.

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