William Shakespeare is considered one of the greatest writers in the English language, and his works have stood the test of time. He not only penned some of the most iconic plays and sonnets in history, but he also left behind a wealth of wisdom that is still relevant today. One of his lesser-known quotes that has been gaining popularity recently is: “Have more than thou showest, speak less than thou knowest, lend less than thou owest, ride more than thou goest, learn more than thou trowest, set less than thou throwest.” Let’s take a closer look at each part of this quote and explore how it can be applied to our lives today.
Have More Than Thou Showest
The first part of Shakespeare’s quote encourages us to have more than we show to others. In other words, we should strive to cultivate depth and substance in our lives. This means investing in ourselves, not just in material possessions. We can do this by seeking out new experiences, learning new skills, and cultivating meaningful relationships. By focusing on inner growth, we can become more well-rounded and interesting individuals who have more to offer the world.
Speak Less Than Thou Knowest
The second part of Shakespeare’s quote is a reminder to be humble and not to brag about our knowledge or accomplishments. We can always learn more, and there is value in admitting what we don’t know. By speaking less and listening more, we can learn from others and gain new perspectives. Additionally, by not constantly seeking validation or attention, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace and self-confidence.
Learn More Than Thou Trowest
The third part of Shakespeare’s quote is a reminder that we should never stop learning. There is always something new to discover, and the more we learn, the more we can grow as individuals. This can mean taking courses, reading books, or seeking out new experiences. By being open to learning, we can expand our knowledge and improve our lives.
Ride More Than Thou Goest
The fourth part of Shakespeare’s quote encourages us to be adventurous and explore the world around us. We should be willing to take risks, try new things, and embrace life’s many adventures. This can mean traveling to new places, trying new foods, or pursuing a new hobby. By stepping outside of our comfort zones, we can learn and grow in ways that we never thought possible.
Lend Less Than Thou Owest
The fifth part of Shakespeare’s quote is a reminder to be responsible with our finances. We should not borrow more than we can afford to pay back, and we should always strive to live within our means. By being financially responsible, we can avoid debt and stress, and we can focus on what truly matters in life.
Set Less Than Thou Throwest
The final part of Shakespeare’s quote is a reminder to be mindful of our actions and their consequences. We should not act impulsively or without thought, but rather, we should be intentional in everything we do. By being deliberate in our choices, we can avoid regret and live a more fulfilling life.
Conclusion
Shakespeare’s quote “Have More Than you Show, Speak Less Than You Know” reminds us to live a life of depth, humility, and intentionality. By striving to have more than we show, speaking less than we know, learning more than we think we do, riding more than we go, lending less than we owe, and setting less than we throw, we can lead a life of substance, growth, and meaning.
