--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Take a good hard look at people’s ruling…" description: "\"“Take a good hard look at people’s ruling principle, especially of the wise, what they run away from and what they seek out.” —MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITAT..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/7f6/ryan-holiday-514_prayer_take-a-good-hard-look-at-people-s-ruling_1278287.jpg" --- # Take a good hard look at people’s ruling principle… ![“Take a good hard look at people’s ruling principle, especially of the wise, what they run away from and what they seek out.” —MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS, 4.38” quote by Ryan Holiday](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/7f6/ryan-holiday-514_prayer_take-a-good-hard-look-at-people-s-ruling_1278287.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/7f6/ryan-holiday-514_prayer_take-a-good-hard-look-at-people-s-ruling_1278287.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/7f6/ryan-holiday-514_prayer_take-a-good-hard-look-at-people-s-ruling_1278287.jpg) > ““Take a good hard look at people’s ruling principle, especially of the wise, what they run away from and what they seek out.” —MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS, 4.38”” [Ryan Holiday](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/ryan-holiday/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Examine the underlying values that guide people, especially the wise, noting what they avoid and what they pursue. **In simple terms:** Look at what drives people, especially the wise, what they avoid and what they seek. Key Takeaway Identify and align with your own core values. Themes self‑knowledge values wisdom Mood reflective analytical Type philosophical motivational When to use this quote - leadership - personal development - decision making - conflict resolution Key Concepts Stoicism psychology Questions to Reflect On - What principles do you notice in your mentors? - How do you respond to what you fear? 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