People in their handlings of affairs often fail when they are about to succeed. If one remains as careful at the end as he was at the beginning, there will be no failure.

Meaning

The quote suggests a deeper observation about life. It conveys that life rarely follows a perfect plan, while also implying that the present moment deserves attention.

Theme

Across cultures, life remains a recurring subject. Many reflect on it since people seek purpose and clarity. This quote fits that tradition, highlighting that every stage of life offers lessons.

About the Author

Many popular reflections are credited to Lao-Tzu, including this one. Their words often comment on themes like life.

Style and Structure

The quote uses a simple and direct style. Through contrast, it emphasizes the central idea and makes the message memorable.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
life rarely follows a perfect plan.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about life, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we focus on the present moment.