This advises people to pursue wealth and success without drawing attention or bragging about it. The idea is that quiet, steady effort avoids jealousy, competition, and unnecessary interference from others.
This phrase became popular in the reform era (post-1978) when many Chinese people became wealthy through entrepreneurship. It reflects a pragmatic, low-profile approach to business that avoids the 'tall tree catches the wind' (树大招风) problem.
Chinese culture values modesty and warns against ostentation, as visible wealth can attract envy, requests for loans, or official scrutiny. This saying signals strategic humility—it's a protective mechanism to preserve one's fortune and peace of mind.
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