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Avoided Quote by Francis Quarles

“Fear nothing but what thy industry may prevent; be confident of nothing but what fortune cannot defeat; it is no less folly to fear what is impossible to be avoided than to be secure when there is a possibility to be deprived.” quote by Francis Quarles
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“Fear nothing but what thy industry may prevent; be confident of nothing but what fortune cannot defeat; it is no less folly to fear what is impossible to be avoided than to be secure when there is a possibility to be deprived.”

Francis Quarles

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Fear of the World”, 1625

Fear should target only what we can control; over‑confidence in the uncontrollable is folly.

In simple terms: Fear what you can affect, not what you cannot.

Key Takeaway

Focus on controllable risks.

Themes

fear control confidence fortune

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • financial investing
  • health decisions

Key Concepts

Stoic prudence risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What risks can you realistically influence?
  • How do you balance confidence with humility?
A Different Perspective

Over‑emphasis on control can cause anxiety.

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