Skip to content

In the long run, you can never accomplish a worthy end…

“In the long run, you can never accomplish a worthy end with an unworthy means.” quote by Stephen Covey
Download Open image
“In the long run, you can never accomplish a worthy end with an unworthy means.”

Stephen Covey

About This Quote

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

Achieving valuable goals requires ethical methods; success built on bad tactics is hollow.

In simple terms: Good ends need good means.

Key Takeaway

Choose ethical methods.

Themes

ethics integrity leadership

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business decisions
  • personal goals
  • political campaigns
  • social movements

Key Concepts

moral philosophy means‑ends theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are your tactics aligned with your values?
  • What costs arise from compromising ethics?
A Different Perspective

Unethical means may produce short‑term gains but damage reputation and trust.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Stephen Covey

Explore all 663 Stephen Covey quotes

More Accomplish quotes

Browse all 2,426 Accomplish quotes