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Certain Quote by Benjamin Franklin

“Gain may be temporary and uncertain; but ever while you live, expense is constant and certain: and it is easier to build two chimneys than to keep one in fuel.” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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“Gain may be temporary and uncertain; but ever while you live, expense is constant and certain: and it is easier to build two chimneys than to keep one in fuel.”

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

Source Essay: Advice to a Young Tradesman, 1748

Life’s costs are steady while gains fluctuate, so it’s wiser to invest in reliable resources than to chase uncertain profits.

In simple terms: Expenses are steady, gains are not.

Key Takeaway

Invest in stable foundations.

Themes

finance stability investment

Mood

pragmatic cautious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • budgeting
  • business planning
  • personal finance
  • entrepreneurship

Key Concepts

risk management resource allocation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are you focusing on short‑term gains over long‑term security?
  • How can you balance risk and stability?
A Different Perspective

It ignores potential high‑reward opportunities that may outweigh the risk.

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