This quote is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-awareness, intention, and action in personal growth and achievement. It emphasizes the need to first clearly define your goals or who you want to be, and then take the necessary steps to achieve that.

The first part of the quote, “First say to yourself what you would be,” is about envisioning one’s desired future self or goal. It is about introspection and self-definition. It suggests that before we embark on any journey or pursue any goal, we must first have a clear vision of our destination or desired outcome. This could be anything from wanting to be a kinder person, to becoming a successful entrepreneur, or leading a healthier lifestyle.

The second part, “and then do what you have to do,” emphasizes the importance of action. Once we have a clear vision of who we want to be or what we want to achieve, we must then take the necessary steps to make it happen. This could involve learning new skills, changing old habits, overcoming challenges, making sacrifices, or stepping out of our comfort zones.

In today’s world, this quote is highly relevant in both personal and professional contexts. For instance, in the context of personal development, if you envision yourself as a more patient person, you have to practice patience in your daily life, perhaps by practicing mindfulness or other techniques. If you want to be a successful writer, you must write regularly, seek feedback, and continuously improve your craft.

In a professional context, if you aspire to be a manager in your organization, you must take on leadership roles, improve your communication skills, and understand team dynamics. It’s not enough to just have a vision or goal; you must also be willing to put in the effort and make the necessary changes to achieve it.

Overall, this quote is a reminder that our actions must align with our aspirations. It encourages us to be proactive and intentional in our journey towards personal growth and achievement.