This proverb acknowledges that starting any endeavor is the most challenging part. It encourages people to push through initial difficulties because once the first step is taken, momentum builds. It's a motivational saying that normalizes early struggles.
Rooted in Chinese pragmatism, this saying reflects the cultural belief that perseverance is key to success. It's often used to comfort or encourage someone facing a daunting new task, echoing the Confucian emphasis on self-cultivation through effort.
This saying serves as a social motivator, reducing the shame of struggling at the beginning. It signals empathy and shared experience, creating a supportive atmosphere that encourages action rather than perfection — a way to foster collective perseverance.
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