strict with oneself

  • Mencius – Chapter 14.32

    Mencius states fine words carry deep truths through plain speech; sound principles bring wide good with simple rules. Gentlemen cultivate themselves to pacify the world, criticizing those who ignore self-cultivation yet harshly demand virtue from others.

  • The Analects – Chapter 15.15

    The Master said, “Be strict with yourself and lenient in blaming others, and you will stay far from resentment.”