Zeng Guofan's life creed

First of all, talk about determination.

Scholars should be ambitious first, knowledgeable second and persistent third. Aspiring to be unwilling to be vulgar, knowing endlessly, not being self-sufficient, and persevering are impossible. All three are indispensable.

Second, talk about self-cultivation

Who can be slow? What can I relax about? Lazy people accomplish nothing, and those who procrastinate go back on their word.

Third, talk about concentration.

For example, digging a well is better than digging a spring. Why not always keep a good one and try to use the spring?

Fourth, talk about methods.

Years of military experience have taught me that what happens in the world should focus on the overall situation and start small. Only when the realm is clever and the means are clever can things be achieved.

Fifth, be reasonable.

Truth is close to correction and fallacy where it cannot be said too high. Give examples of recent events and be reasonable.

Sixth, talk about employing people.

Generally speaking, the person in charge of things must not have a reputation but never die, and be kind without complaining. Self-taught people just want to be idle. They should not be discouraged by Shen Yi's ridicule. A person who balances others should only seek a long-term advantage, and should not abandon useful materials because of minor defects. If you are in a hurry, you will be lucky.

Seven, talk about health.

The key to health preservation is the word "Chen Junyi Lao"; The more you use your mind, the more you will come out. Don't be too precious because you are weak.

Eight, talk about composition

Where there is spirit, there is motivation; Where there is knowledge, there is degree; Where there is love, there is rhyme; Where there is interest, there is taste. Momentum, knowledge, true feelings, interest.