Community Quote by Laozi
“First, we must do our own personal work, then we tend the necessary work of our family, then our community, then the world.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Tao Te Ching, Chapter 33, c. 400 BC
Personal development precedes broader responsibilities; one must first cultivate self before serving family, community, and world.
In simple terms: Work on yourself before helping others.
Begin with self‑improvement.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal therapy
- family counseling
- community volunteering
- global activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance self‑care with external duties?
- What personal habits empower you to serve others?
Neglecting personal health can undermine later contributions.