Action Quote by Confucius
“The failure to cultivate virtue, the failure to examine and analyze what I have learned, the inability to move toward righteousness after being shown the way, the inability to correct my faults-these are the causes of my grief.”
About This Quote
Source Analects, Book 15, 5th century BC
Highlights that lacking virtue, self‑examination, and corrective effort leads to personal sorrow
In simple terms: Neglecting virtue and self‑reflection causes grief
Cultivate virtue and self‑analysis
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- teaching
- leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What virtues need strengthening in your life?
- How can you better examine your actions?
Self‑improvement requires effort and honesty