Timeless Wisdom: Three Latin Sayings on Time and Personal Growth
Written on
Chapter 1: The Essence of Time
Time forms the foundation of our existence. Every purchase you make is essentially a trade of your time, reflecting the hours spent earning the money for it. Engaging with others means investing your precious time in those relationships. Accepting an invitation or opportunity often means sacrificing time you could have allocated elsewhere. Every action you take has a time cost.
To help you use your time wisely, I’d like to share three impactful Latin sayings about time.
"The essence of time shapes our choices and actions."
Section 1.1: Festina Lente
The phrase “Hurry slowly,” attributed to Emperor Augustus (27 B.C. — 14 A.D.), serves as a crucial reminder. Augustus advised his military leaders to proceed with diligence. A similar saying in Spain goes, “Dress me slowly; I’m in a hurry.”
In life, it’s essential to balance urgency and patience. Rushing can lead to poor outcomes if foundational aspects aren’t solid. A surge in demand can overwhelm any poorly designed system, leading to what’s often called “dying of success.” This principle applies universally, both personally and professionally. Thus, while you should strive for results, remember that sustainable achievements are more valuable than fleeting successes. As my grandfather wisely noted, “grain by grain fills the barn.”
Section 1.2: Tempora Mutantur, Et Nos Mutamur In Illis
“Times change, and we change with them,” a saying attributed to Lotarius I (795 AD — 855 AD), resonates powerfully today. Resisting change comes at a high cost; embracing it allows you to evolve positively.
The journey towards your goals is as vital as the destination itself. A sailor becomes a captain through experience at sea, not merely by arriving at the harbor. The choice lies with you: will the changes improve you, or will you become outdated?
Chapter 2: The Journey of Learning
Section 2.1: Discipulus Est Prioris Posterior Dies
“The second day is the pupil of the first,” attributed to Publilius Siro (85 B.C. — 43 B.C.), speaks to the challenges of beginnings. All new ventures can feel daunting, but over time, we grow more adept, transforming difficulties into enjoyment.
As my grandfather said, “What seems complex today will gradually become easier, and eventually, you may find joy in mastering it.” Mastery requires commitment, overcoming initial obstacles like indifference and mental fatigue. Tomorrow is shaped by today's lessons, so it’s essential to avoid the allure of shortcuts.
Success often hinges on resisting quick fixes and dedicating daily effort to hone our skills.
A virtual hug,
A.G.
Follow me and subscribe to my profile (by clicking the envelope icon) to receive updates whenever I post new content.