Direct Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“Perseverance in object, though not by the most direct way, is often more laudable than perpetual changes, as often as the object shifts light.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: To James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, 1795
Indirect approaches may achieve goals more honorably than constant change, especially when the objective evolves.
In simple terms: Sometimes indirect methods are better than constant change.
Key Takeaway
Value perseverance and adaptable strategies.
Themes
philosophy
strategy
ethics
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
strategic
When to use this quote
- Long‑term projects
- policy development
- personal growth
Key Concepts
Virtue ethics
goal alignment
Questions to Reflect On
- When is a direct approach preferable?
- How do you balance perseverance with flexibility?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on indirectness can delay progress.
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![“Single acts of tyranny may be ascribed to the accidental opinion of a day; but a series of oppressions, begun at a distinguished period and pursued unalterably through every change of ministers, too plainly prove a deliberate, systematic plan of reducing [a people] to slavery.” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/00c/thomas-jefferson-43_change_single-acts-of-tyranny-may-be-ascribed-t_5515.jpg)
![“Though you cannot see, when you take one step, what will be the next, yet follow truth, justice, and plain dealing, and never fear their leading you out of [any difficult situation] in the easiest manner possible...” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ebe/thomas-jefferson-43_difficult_though-you-cannot-see-when-you-take-one_9828.jpg)
