“By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”
— Confucius
Simplified Meaning:
There are three main ways to gain wisdom: thinking deeply about things, copying others, and learning from our own experiences. Thinking deeply is considered the best because it helps us understand things clearly without any pain. For example, before making a big decision, if you take time to weigh all the pros and cons, you can avoid mistakes. Copying others is simpler because it involves watching someone else and doing what they do, like learning to cook by following a recipe. Learning from our own experiences is the hardest because it often involves making mistakes and feeling pain, like touching a hot stove and getting burned. To apply this to your life, try to think things through carefully, observe and learn from others, and accept your mistakes as lessons.
