"Education begins the gentleman, but reading, good company and reflection must finish him"

The essence of this idea is pretty straightforward. It’s saying that schooling is just the starting point for becoming a well-rounded, refined person. But that’s not enough. To truly develop into someone who’s knowledgeable and wise, you need to dive into books on your own, spend time with people who inspire you, and take moments to really think about what you’ve learned and experienced.

Historically, this concept has roots in the idea of the Renaissance man, a person who’s skilled in many different areas of knowledge and life. Back then, formal education was the first step in a lifelong journey of learning and personal growth. Today, the idea still holds true. We might start with what we learn in school, but it’s what we do with that foundation that really shapes us.

Let’s look at a real-life example. Think about Warren Buffett, one of the wealthiest and wisest investors in the world. Formal education gave him the basics of economics and finance. But what really made him a titan in his field? His voracious reading habit. He spends a huge part of his day reading newspapers, books, and financial reports. Plus, he surrounds himself with smart, successful people and constantly reflects on his experiences and decisions. This combination of reading, good company, and reflection has been key to his success.

So how can you apply this in your life? Start with your education—learn the basics and get your qualifications. But don’t stop there. Make reading a regular habit. It doesn't have to be just books related to your field; read broadly. Join groups or communities where you can meet people who challenge and inspire you. And take time to reflect. This could be through journaling, meditating, or just setting aside some quiet time each day to think.

Imagine you’re in a coffee shop with a friend. You’re talking about how you want to grow in your career and your personal life. Your friend tells you about a mentor they have who’s always recommending great books and pushing them to think critically about their goals. They share how this mentor doesn’t just give advice; they have deep conversations that make your friend reflect on their own life choices and ambitions. You think about this and realize that while you’ve been working hard, you haven’t really been engaging in this kind of deeper learning and reflection.

So, you decide to take action. You ask your friend if you can join their next meeting with the mentor. You start picking up books that not only teach you new things but also challenge your perspectives. You set aside a few minutes every night to jot down what you’ve learned and how you feel about it. Over time, you notice changes. You’re more thoughtful in your decisions, more articulate in discussions, and you feel a sense of growth that goes beyond just professional achievements.

By making these habits part of your life, you’re finishing the job that education started. You’re becoming not just knowledgeable, but wise—a true gentleman or gentlewoman in the fullest sense.

Remember, it’s a journey. Keep learning, keep reflecting, and keep connecting with people who push you to be better. That’s how you truly finish what education began.