Firsts Quote by Otto von Bismarck
“I have never lived on principles. When I have had to act, I never first asked myself on what principles I was going to act, but I went at it and did what I thought fit. I have often reproached myself for my want of principle.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political Address, Otto von Bismarck, 1862
Principles are often ignored in action; decisions are made by instinct and practicality rather than doctrine.
In simple terms: People act without clear principles.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on your values before acting.
Themes
ethics
decision‑making
pragmatism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- personal dilemmas
- leadership
- policy formation
Key Concepts
political philosophy
personal integrity
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you act on principle or convenience?
- When is flexibility justified?
A Different Perspective
Lack of principles can lead to inconsistency and regret.
![“Since I worked with Danny Boyle before on Slumdog Millionaire, we have great success and everything. So, when I first got the script and the screenplay of Simon (Beaufoy) and I was reading it, even before the shoot, some kind of sounds came into my mind and I put some stuff [down] and sent it to…” quote by A. R. Rahman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/573/a-r-rahman-4481_cutting_since-i-worked-with-danny-boyle-before-o_539.jpg)
