Skip to content

Acting Quote by Alexander McCall Smith

“But we make such mistakes all the time, all through our lives. Wisdom, I suppose, is seeing this and acting upon it before it is too late. But it is often too late, isn't it? - and those things that we should have said are unsaid, and remain unsaid for ever.” quote by Alexander McCall Smith
Download Open image
“But we make such mistakes all the time, all through our lives. Wisdom, I suppose, is seeing this and acting upon it before it is too late. But it is often too late, isn't it? - and those things that we should have said are unsaid, and remain unsaid for ever.”

Alexander McCall Smith

About This Quote

Source Novel: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, 1998

Mistakes are inevitable; wisdom is seeing them early and acting before it's too late, though often we miss the chance.

In simple terms: Mistakes happen; early awareness prevents regret.

Key Takeaway

Act on insights promptly.

Themes

wisdom mistake timing

Mood

reflective pragmatic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • career decisions
  • financial planning
  • health choices

Key Concepts

Self‑reflection learning from errors

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you cultivate quicker responses to insight?
  • What systems help prevent missed opportunities?
A Different Perspective

Human nature often delays action despite awareness.

4.1 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Alexander McCall Smith

Explore all 628 Alexander McCall Smith quotes

More Acting quotes

Browse all 12,062 Acting quotes