A great man is hard on himself; a small man is hard on others.

Hello, I am Confucius, a philosopher and teacher whose words have resonated across centuries. One of my most quoted sayings is: "A great man is hard on himself; a small man is hard on others." This phrase reflects the essence of self-discipline and personal accountability. When I first uttered these words, they were a call to introspection and self-improvement. They were meant to inspire leaders, scholars, and individuals to focus on their own shortcomings and strive for virtue rather than projecting their flaws onto others. A truly great person, I believe, begins by examining their own faults, working tirelessly to refine their character, and holding themselves to the highest standards. In contrast, those of lesser character divert attention from their failings by criticizing and blaming others. This principle applied universally in ancient times. It was especially vital for rulers and officials to lead with integrity, to demand more from themselves than from those they governed, and to build a just and harmonious society. Those who neglected self-discipline often ruled through fear and cruelty, leading to societal discontent and discord.