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When dealing with the dishonest, be shrewd. When dealing…

“When dealing with the dishonest, be shrewd. When dealing with the crafty, be cunning. When dealing with the wise, be prudent. When dealing with the enlightened, be sapient. When dealing with all, be noble.” quote by Matshona Dhliwayo
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““When dealing with the dishonest, be shrewd. When dealing with the crafty, be cunning. When dealing with the wise, be prudent. When dealing with the enlightened, be sapient. When dealing with all, be noble.””

Matshona Dhliwayo

About This Quote

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

Adapt your behavior to the character of those you interact with, using appropriate wisdom and virtue for each type.

In simple terms: Treat each person according to their nature with wisdom.

Key Takeaway

Match your conduct to others' traits.

Themes

wisdom ethics social intelligence

Mood

thoughtful strategic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • negotiation
  • conflict resolution
  • mentoring
  • networking

Key Concepts

pragmatism virtue adaptability

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you discern the appropriate level of caution with different people?
  • When might a uniform approach be better?
A Different Perspective

Overly nuanced advice may seem manipulative if not applied sincerely.

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