Stranger, pause and ask thyself the question, Canst thou do likewise? If not, with a blush retire.
This quote from Charles Dickens is a call to self-reflection and self-improvement. It asks the reader to pause and consider their actions in comparison to others. The phrase “Canst thou do likewise?” asks whether you can emulate the actions of the person you’re observing. If the answer is no, Dickens suggests that you should “with a blush retire,” meaning you should feel a sense of embarrassment and withdraw.
The quote is a reminder to continually strive for betterment and to use others as a benchmark for our own actions. If we see someone doing something admirable, we should ask ourselves if we could do the same. If the answer is no, then we should feel a sense of shame, not necessarily because we’re inherently bad or wrong, but because we have identified a potential area for growth and improvement.
In today’s world, this quote is particularly relevant in the context of social media where we often compare ourselves to others. Instead of feeling envious or inferior, we can use these comparisons as motivation to improve ourselves. If we see someone achieving something we desire, instead of feeling jealous, we can ask ourselves “Can I do likewise?” If the answer is no, then it’s a cue for us to work harder and strive to reach that level.
In terms of personal development, this quote can be a powerful tool for self-improvement. It encourages self-reflection and self-awareness, two key components of personal growth. By constantly asking ourselves if we can do what others are doing, we’re constantly pushing ourselves to learn, grow, and improve. It’s a reminder that we should always strive to be better and never settle for mediocrity.
