Precepts Quote by W. Somerset Maugham
““It is quite as difficult to fit one's practice to one's precepts as to fit one's precepts to one's practice. Most people act in one way and preach in another. When the fact is brought to their notice, they assert that it is their weakness, and that their desire is to act up to their principles. That is pretence. People act according to their inclinations and adopt principles; because these are generally at variance with their inclinations they are ill-at-ease and unstable. But when they force themselves to act up to their principles and suppress their inclinations, there is no hope for them - but in heaven.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Practice of Principles,” 1935
Aligning actions with ideals is hard; forcing conformity creates inner conflict and spiritual risk.
In simple terms: Principles vs. habits clash.
Key Takeaway
Seek harmony between belief and behavior.
Themes
integrity
self‑knowledge
conflict
Mood
thoughtful
philosophical
Type
ethical
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile actions with beliefs?
- What compromises are acceptable?
A Different Perspective
Rigid adherence may cause psychological strain.
![“the precepts of an absolutely perfect life, since they are the same in each Testament, have pointed out [to us] the same God, who certainly has promulgated particular laws adapted for each; but the more prominent and the greatest [commandments], without which salvation cannot [be attained], He has…” quote by The Church Fathers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/415/the-church-fathers-1438_commandments_the-precepts-of-an-absolutely-perfect-li_33593.jpg)