19 Leadership Quotes From China’s First Emperor: Qin Shi Huang
Today, as part of our Leaders of Antiquity series, we offer Leadership Quotes from Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
Emperor Qin Shi Huang (259 BC–210 BC) was the first emperor of China. He unified the country and created the first centralized dynasty in Chinese history, the Qin Dynasty. He is also known for his strict legalism and authoritarian rule.
We’ve done our best to verify the attributions in this article. Here are some leadership quotes attributed to him:
Wisdom and Flexibility Leadership Quotes
“The art of leadership is not to be feared, but mastered.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“A wise ruler must be flexible, like water.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“The wise find pleasure in water; the virtuous find pleasure in hills. The wise are active; the virtuous are tranquil. The wise are joyful; the virtuous are long-lived.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
Seizing Opportunities and Taking Action
“Opportunities multiply as they are seized.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“The key to success is action, and the essential in action is perseverance.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
Qin Shi Huang Quotes About Leading
“A leader must always lead by example.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“A great leader is one who knows when to be tough and when to be merciful.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“A leader who takes advice from his followers will always be successful.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“A ruler who governs by means of virtue is like the pole star, which remains in its place while all the lesser stars do homage to it.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
Strength and Prosperity Leadership Quotes
“To build a great nation, one must start by building a great army.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“The greatest reward for a leader is to see his people live in peace and prosperity.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“The strength of a nation comes from the strength of its army.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“The best way to control people is to let them know that they are being controlled.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“One generation plants the trees, another gets the shade.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
“To win the hearts of the people, one must first demonstrate their loyalty by serving them.” – Emperor Qin Shi Huang
These quotes cover a range of leadership topics, including wisdom and flexibility, balancing strength and mercy, seeking and valuing advice, seizing opportunities and taking action, building a strong foundation, leading by example, restoring order and governing with virtue, strength and prosperity, leadership and control, legacy and future, and leadership and service.
I particularly appreciate the last Qin Shi Huang Leadership quote on the list. Serving leads to loyalty.
Thanks for checking out these leadership quotes attributed to Qin Shi Huang. Which was most helpful to you?
How might you consider implementing that advice in your life?
Leave a comment.
Make it a great day!
PS: Read the FAQ section to learn more about Emperor Qin Shin Huang.
Emperor Qin Shi Huang FAQ
Q: What was Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s leadership style?
A: Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s leadership style was characterized by strict legalism and authoritarianism. He implemented harsh laws and punishments to maintain order and establish a centralized government.
Emperor Qin Shi Huang also placed a strong emphasis on military power and conquest, which led to the unification of China under his rule.
Q: What were some of the key achievements of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s leadership?
A: Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s most notable achievements include the unification of China, the establishment of a centralized government, the construction of the Great Wall of China, and the creation of the Terracotta Army.
He also implemented standardization measures, such as a unified system of weights and measures and a standardized system of writing.
Q: What are some leadership lessons that can be learned from Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s rule?
A: One lesson that can be learned from Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s rule is the importance of strong leadership and decisive action in times of crisis. The emperor’s firm and decisive leadership style aided in his ability to unify China and establish a powerful central government
Another lesson is the importance of balancing toughness with compassion and understanding. While Emperor Qin Shi Huang was known for his harsh punishments, he also recognized the need to show mercy and forgiveness when appropriate.
Additionally, his emphasis on standardization and unification demonstrates the importance of clear communication and consistency in leadership.
