--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: It is a maxim, that those, to whom…" description: "\"It is a maxim, that those, to whom everybody allows the second place, have an undoubted title to the first.\" — Jonathan Swift" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/02b/jonathan-swift-433_class_it-is-a-maxim-that-those-to-whom-everybo_1691839.jpg" --- # It is a maxim, that those, to whom everybody allows the… ![“It is a maxim, that those, to whom everybody allows the second place, have an undoubted title to the first.” quote by Jonathan Swift](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/02b/jonathan-swift-433_class_it-is-a-maxim-that-those-to-whom-everybo_1691839.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/02b/jonathan-swift-433_class_it-is-a-maxim-that-those-to-whom-everybo_1691839.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/02b/jonathan-swift-433_class_it-is-a-maxim-that-those-to-whom-everybo_1691839.jpg) > “It is a maxim, that those, to whom everybody allows the second place, have an undoubted title to the first.” [Jonathan Swift](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/jonathan-swift/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Those who accept a secondary role often deserve the leading one. **In simple terms:** Accepting second place can hide true ability. Key Takeaway Recognize your worth beyond assigned rank. Themes humility recognition self-worth Mood thoughtful encouraging Type critical motivational When to use this quote - team projects - career advancement - negotiations Key Concepts social dynamics leadership Questions to Reflect On - Do you settle for second best? - What evidence supports your claim to lead? A Different Perspective Risk of overconfidence if misapplied. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Class](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/class/) [Maxims](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/maxims/) [Second place](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/second-place/) ## Related quotes > [In a press conference, everyone is required to be like, "I'm just trying to do what's best for the team," but really?! 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