Never have a companion that casts you in the shade.

There must be something good in a thing that pleases so many; even if it cannot be explained, it is certainly enjoyed.

For a thing to remain undone nothing more is needed than to think of it done.

Attempt easy tasks as if they were difficult, and difficult as if they were easy; in the one case that confidence may not fall asleep, in the other that it may not be dismayed.

Knowledge without courage is sterile.

Better mad with the rest of the world than wise alone.

Keep the extent of your abilities unknown.The wise man does not allow his knowledge and abilities to be sounded to the bottom, if he desires to be honored at all. He allows you to know them but not to comprehend them. No one must know the extent of his abilities, lest he be disappointed. No one ever has an opportunity of fathoming him entirely. For guesses and doubts about the extent of his talents arouse more veneration than accurate knowledge of them, be they ever so great.