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"Es mucho mejor prever incluso sin certeza que no prever en absoluto."

Marilyn vos Savant
Marilyn vos Savant Author and Columnist
Translations
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Quote meaning
Seeing the future, even if it’s through a hazy lens, is way better than not looking ahead at all. This idea boils down to the notion that planning and anticipation, despite the presence of uncertainty, are vital. Imagine you’re standing on the edge of a foggy cliff. You can’t see what’s below, but wouldn’t you rather prepare yourself for a leap than just jump blindly? That’s the essence of this quote. Even if our foresight is imperfect or uncertain, it’s advantageous to try to anticipate what’s coming.

Historically, this mindset has been crucial in many areas, particularly in strategic planning, whether in business, warfare, or personal life. For instance, during World War II, leaders had to make decisions based on incomplete information. They couldn't afford to wait for perfect clarity because the stakes were too high. They had to act on the best information available, foreseeing potential outcomes to gain any strategic advantage.

Now, let's dive into a real-life example to flesh this out. Think about the world of investing. Investors often navigate uncertain waters, making decisions based on market predictions, which are inherently uncertain. Warren Buffet, one of the most successful investors of all time, often speaks about the importance of evaluating future potential and risks. He doesn’t have a crystal ball showing the exact future of the stock market, but he does his best to foresee possible scenarios. This foresight, albeit imperfect, guides his decisions—allowing him to minimize risks and seize opportunities.

So, how can you apply this in your own life? Start by acknowledging that you’ll never have all the answers. Instead, gather as much relevant information as you can and make the best possible predictions. For instance, if you’re considering a career change, don’t wait for the perfect moment (spoiler: it might never come). Research the industry, talk to people, and weigh the pros and cons. Even if you can’t predict every twist and turn, you’ll be better prepared than if you hadn’t thought about it at all.

Here's a relatable scenario to bring this idea home: Imagine you’re planning a road trip with friends. You can’t predict everything—weather changes, traffic jams, or unexpected detours. But you can foresee some possibilities and prepare. Pack snacks, plan your route, and check the weather forecast. Sure, things might not go exactly as planned, but having a map and an emergency kit will make any unforeseen issues much easier to handle.

In short, don't let the fog of uncertainty paralyze you. Take a stab at predicting the future, even if it's just an educated guess. It’s all about having a rough idea rather than none at all. In life, like on a foggy cliff, it’s better to leap with some sense of what’s below than to jump blindly.
Related tags
Decision making Foresight Future Insight Planning Preparedness Proactiveness Risk management Uncertainty Wisdom
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