Able Quote by Lord Chesterfield
“In business be as able as you can, but do not be cunning; cunning is the dark sanctuary of incapacity.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Advice to a Young Gentleman, 1740s (Collected Letters)
Advice warns that cleverness used to deceive is a sign of weakness, urging honest competence over manipulative cunning.
In simple terms: Honest skill beats deceitful cleverness.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate genuine ability, avoid deceit.
Themes
integrity
honesty
competence
ethics
Mood
reflective
cautious
inspirational
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- leadership
- team management
- career advancement
Key Concepts
cunning
incompetence
morality
Questions to Reflect On
- When is strategic thinking different from unethical cunning?
- How can one demonstrate competence without resorting to deceit?
A Different Perspective
Cunning may succeed short‑term but erodes trust and long‑term effectiveness.
