Counsel Quote by Francis Bacon
“There is as much difference between the counsel that a friend giveth, and that a man giveth himself, as there is between the counsel of a friend and of a flatterer. For there is no such flatterer as is a man's self.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essays, Moral and Political, 1625
Self‑advice often mirrors a friend's counsel, but self‑flattery is absent; true self‑guidance must be honest, not ego‑driven.
In simple terms: Advice from yourself differs from a friend’s, but isn’t flattering.
Key Takeaway
Seek honest self‑advice, avoid ego.
Themes
self‑knowledge
honesty
advice
ego
reflection
Mood
thoughtful
introspective
Type
philosophical
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- leadership
- mental health
- coaching
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you tell if your self‑advice is honest?
- What steps ensure your self‑guidance avoids self‑flattery?
A Different Perspective
Self‑advice can be biased by ego, limiting objectivity.
