A classical Chinese line for “Know what matters first”

Things have roots and branches; affairs have endings and beginnings. To know what comes first and what follows is to approach the Way.

Plain meaningKnow what matters first, and do not confuse the root with the branches.

In all things, preparation leads to success; lack of preparation leads to failure.

Plain meaningPrepare before you begin if you want the work to stand.

Return, return! The fields are going wild—why not go home?

Plain meaningLeave the life that drains you and return to what truly matters.

A journey of a thousand miles begins beneath one's feet.

Plain meaningBegin with the first real step, however small.

If you desire speed, you will not arrive; if you chase small gains, great work will not be completed.

Plain meaningDo not let impatience or short-term rewards ruin the larger goal.