Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself" encapsulates a profound philosophy on personal conduct and interpersonal relationships. At its core, it advocates for a balanced approach to navigating interactions with others and managing one's own behavior.
To be "tolerant with others" suggests showing patience, understanding, and acceptance towards different perspectives, behaviors, and beliefs that may differ from our own. It encourages empathy and the willingness to listen without judgment, recognizing that diversity in thoughts and actions is a natural part of human interaction. This aspect of the quote emphasizes the importance of fostering harmony and cooperation in social contexts by embracing diversity and respecting individual differences.
On the other hand, being "strict with yourself" implies a commitment to self-discipline, accountability, and personal growth. It entails setting high standards for one's own behavior, actions, and decisions, and holding oneself accountable to these standards consistently. This self-discipline encompasses various aspects of life, such as ethical conduct, work ethic, personal habits, and emotional management. By maintaining strict self-control and adhering to personal values and goals, individuals can cultivate integrity, resilience, and a sense of purpose in their lives.
The juxtaposition of tolerance towards others and strictness towards oneself highlights a nuanced balance necessary for personal development and healthy relationships. It suggests that while we should be open-minded and accommodating towards others' differences, we should also strive for continuous self-improvement and uphold ethical principles in our own conduct. This dual approach fosters a harmonious coexistence where mutual respect, empathy, and personal integrity form the foundation for meaningful interactions and societal cohesion.
In essence, this quote encourages individuals to navigate the complexities of social dynamics with a blend of compassion and self-control, ultimately fostering a more inclusive, responsible, and fulfilling way of living both individually and collectively. It underscores the idea that by nurturing tolerance towards others and maintaining discipline within oneself, we contribute positively to our communities and create a more harmonious world.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself." is often attributed to Marcus Aurelius (Bio / Quotes). Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 161 until his death in AD 180.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that beautifully illustrates the quote "Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself" is the leadership style of Mahatma Gandhi during India's struggle for independence. Gandhi, renowned for his philosophy of nonviolence (ahimsa), exemplified immense tolerance towards others. He emphasized understanding and compassion in his interactions with people, even those who opposed his views.
For instance, during the Salt March of 1930, Gandhi led a peaceful protest against British colonial salt taxes. He did not only tolerate the British authorities who imposed these taxes but also remained respectful and steadfast in his nonviolent approach, despite the harsh responses and provocations from the colonial government. Gandhi’s tolerance was not just a strategic maneuver; it was deeply rooted in his belief in the inherent goodness of people and the transformative power of compassion.
At the same time, Gandhi was exceedingly strict with himself. His personal discipline was legendary—he adhered to strict dietary rules, practiced daily fasting, and maintained a rigorous regimen of simplicity and self-restraint. His personal life was a reflection of the principles he preached. He believed that by controlling his own desires and habits, he could set a moral example for others. His personal strictness was not for show but a fundamental part of his commitment to his ideals and his mission.
This balance between tolerance towards others and strictness with oneself not only earned Gandhi profound respect but also made his leadership effective and his message powerful. His example shows how personal discipline and respect for others can harmoniously coexist to drive social and political change.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In real life, the principle of being tolerant with others and strict with oneself can be applied in various contexts, whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or personal development.
Consider a workplace scenario where a team is working on a high-stakes project. As team members navigate differing opinions, varying work styles, and occasional conflicts, practicing tolerance is crucial. For example, if a colleague frequently misses deadlines or has a different approach to problem-solving, responding with patience and understanding—rather than frustration—can foster a more collaborative and supportive environment. Being tolerant in this case means recognizing that everyone has their unique strengths and challenges and working towards solutions collaboratively rather than escalating conflicts.
Simultaneously, being strict with oneself involves maintaining a high level of personal responsibility and self-discipline. This might mean adhering to deadlines, striving for excellence in one’s own work, and being accountable for one’s actions. If a team member commits to improving their own productivity or communication skills, they should hold themselves to this commitment, even when faced with temptations to procrastinate or excuses to underperform.
By embodying this balance, an individual contributes positively to the team dynamics and personal growth. The team benefits from a supportive and constructive atmosphere, while the individual sets a high standard for their own performance and development. This dual approach helps in building a respectful and efficient working environment and encourages personal excellence, leading to better outcomes both for oneself and for the team as a whole.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
