This means to take preventive measures to avoid problems or disasters before they arise, rather than dealing with them after the fact. It emphasizes foresight, planning, and proactive risk management.
This phrase comes from the ancient Chinese classic 'The Book of Changes' (易经) and has been a core principle in Chinese governance, military strategy, and personal life. It aligns with the traditional emphasis on harmony and avoiding crisis.
Chinese culture values stability and long-term planning over short-term gains. This saying encourages a mindset of vigilance and responsibility—it signals that a wise person thinks ahead and takes small, consistent actions to avoid large, uncontrollable problems.
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