“The first mistake in public business is the going into it” is a commentary on the complexities and challenges of public service or politics. The quote suggests that the very act of entering into public service can be seen as a mistake because of the potential pitfalls and difficulties that it entails. This could be due to the often thankless nature of the job, the scrutiny one is subjected to, and the compromises that often need to be made, which can conflict with one’s personal beliefs or principles.

The quote could also imply that once a person becomes involved in public business, they may lose their private life or personal peace. The constant public scrutiny, decision-making pressure, and the need to please various interest groups could lead to stress and frustration. It is a realm where personal intentions often clash with public expectations and where personal ethics may be challenged by public demands.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see that many people in public service or politics often face criticism, scrutiny, and have to make tough decisions that may not always be popular. They may have to compromise their personal beliefs for the greater good or for the practical necessities of their position. This could be seen in the various controversies and challenges faced by politicians and public servants today.

In terms of personal development, this quote could be a reminder to carefully consider the implications and potential challenges before choosing a career path or a life direction. It suggests the importance of understanding that every choice comes with its own set of challenges and complications, and one must be ready to face them. It could also be seen as a call to maintain integrity and personal values even when faced with difficult decisions or unpopular stances in whatever field one chooses to enter.