The superior man makes the difficulty to be overcome his first interest; success only comes later

The superior man makes the difficulty to be overcome his first interest; success only comes later

Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher and teacher, is known for his profound wisdom and teachings on ethics, morality, and personal development. One of his famous sayings is, "The superior man makes the difficulty to be overcome his first interest; success only comes later." This statement encapsulates the essence of Confucian philosophy, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, resilience, and self-improvement in the face of challenges.

In Confucian thought, the "superior man" refers to an individual who embodies the virtues of benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and sincerity. This person is not defined by external achievements or material success, but by their inner qualities and character. According to Confucius, true greatness lies in one's ability to confront and overcome obstacles with courage, determination, and integrity.

The idea that the difficulty to be overcome should be the first interest of the superior man reflects Confucius' belief in the value of hard work, discipline, and self-mastery. Instead of seeking immediate gratification or easy solutions, the superior man focuses on tackling challenges head-on, learning from setbacks, and growing stronger in the process. By embracing difficulties as opportunities for growth and self-improvement, one can cultivate resilience, perseverance, and a sense of purpose.

Success, in the Confucian sense, is not merely about achieving wealth, fame, or power, but about fulfilling one's potential, contributing to the greater good, and living a virtuous life. According to Confucius, true success is the result of continuous effort, self-reflection, and moral development. It is not a destination to be reached, but a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement.