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Advice Quote by Robert Trivers

“The great sage Thales once put the general matter succinctly "Oh master," he was asked, "what is the most difficult thing to do?" "To know thyself", he replied. "And the easiest?" "To give advice to others.” quote by Robert Trivers
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““The great sage Thales once put the general matter succinctly "Oh master," he was asked, "what is the most difficult thing to do?" "To know thyself", he replied. "And the easiest?" "To give advice to others.””

Robert Trivers

About This Quote

Source Dialogue: Ancient Greek anecdote recorded by later philosophers

The hardest task is self‑knowledge, while the easiest is offering counsel to others.

In simple terms: Knowing yourself is hard; giving advice is easy.

Key Takeaway

Seek self‑understanding before advising.

Themes

self‑knowledge advice humility wisdom

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

aphilosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • leadership
  • mentoring
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How well do you know your own motivations?
  • When should you refrain from advising?
A Different Perspective

Advice may be misguided without true self‑awareness.

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