Ernest Hemingway was a legendary American novelist, known for his succinct and powerful writing style. In addition to his literary contributions, Hemingway was also known for his love of drinking, and his partying often got him into trouble. However, one of his most famous quotes suggests that even in the midst of a drunken stupor, he recognized the importance of following through on one’s commitments. The quote in question is, “Always do sober what you said you’d do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut.”
The Origin of the Quote
The quote is said to have originated from Hemingway himself, who was known for his love of drinking. Hemingway was often drunk and made many wild and crazy statements while under the influence. However, he recognized the importance of keeping one’s word, and he believed that doing what you said you would do while sober would teach you to be more careful about what you said when you were drunk.
Explaining the Meaning
The meaning behind the quote is simple but powerful. It suggests that when we are drunk, we are more likely to make impulsive decisions or say things that we don’t mean. However, if we commit to doing something while sober, it forces us to be accountable and follow through on our promises, even when we are tempted to back out. By doing so, we learn the value of our word and the importance of following through on our commitments, whether we are sober or not.
Moreover, the quote highlights the need for self-discipline and the importance of being responsible for our actions. By doing what we said we would do, we prove to ourselves that we have the willpower and determination to follow through on our commitments, even when it’s difficult. This can help us build self-confidence and trust in ourselves, which can be invaluable in all areas of life.
Expanding on the Topic
The quote can be applied to various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional ones. For example, in personal relationships, we might make promises to our loved ones while under the influence, such as saying we’ll spend more time with them or start exercising regularly. If we don’t follow through on these promises, it can lead to disappointment and a loss of trust. However, by doing what we said we would do, we can strengthen our relationships and build stronger bonds with those we love.
In a professional setting, the quote emphasizes the importance of keeping our word and being reliable. Making promises to our colleagues or clients that we don’t follow through on can damage our reputation and credibility. By doing what we said we would do, we can build trust with our colleagues and clients, which can lead to more successful and long-lasting partnerships.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hemingway’s quote, “Always do sober what you said you’d do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut,” is a powerful reminder of the importance of following through on our commitments, even when it’s difficult. By doing what we said we would do, we build trust in ourselves and with those around us, which can lead to greater success and happiness in life. So, the next time you find yourself making wild promises while under the influence, remember Hemingway’s words and commit to doing what you said you would do, even when you’re sober.
