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When you shoot a bow and arrow, you aim at the clouds, not…

“When you shoot a bow and arrow, you aim at the clouds, not because you expect to hit them, but so that you may reach the distant target on the ground.” quote by Sun Tzu
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“When you shoot a bow and arrow, you aim at the clouds, not because you expect to hit them, but so that you may reach the distant target on the ground.”

Sun Tzu

About This Quote

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

Aim beyond immediate goals to achieve distant objectives; the target is on the ground, not the clouds.

In simple terms: Aim high to reach far goals.

Key Takeaway

Set lofty aims to guide actions.

Themes

strategy focus vision

Mood

determined inspired

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • project planning
  • sports training
  • career development
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

Long‑term planning indirect approach

Questions to Reflect On

  • What distant goal are you missing?
  • How does aiming high shape your daily actions?
A Different Perspective

Aiming too high can waste effort if the ground target is unclear.

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