This saying means that those who are less capable or slower must put in extra effort and start earlier to achieve the same results as others. It is a humble acknowledgment of one's limitations and a strategy for overcoming them.
This is a common saying in Chinese education, used to encourage students who struggle academically. It reframes being 'slow' as not a disadvantage if one is willing to work harder.
Chinese culture values effort and diligence over innate talent. This saying promotes a growth mindset, signaling that hard work can compensate for lack of natural ability, and that there is no shame in needing more time or practice.
Draw random cards from hundreds of real Chinese folk sayings and proverbs. Each flip reveals what Chinese people actually mean.
🎴 Play Chinese Wisdom Cards