proverb · Words worth keeping
Do as you would be done by.
Do as you would be done by.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Treat others with the consideration you would hope to receive yourself. Thinking about how an action would feel from the other side can help you choose a fairer response.
Example
Before criticising a colleague publicly, a manager considers how they would prefer to receive corrective feedback and arranges a respectful private conversation.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The saying asks you to reverse the perspective of an interaction. Before deciding how to behave, consider whether you would welcome the same treatment. That can make disrespect, unfairness or an inconsiderate demand easier to recognise. But another person may have needs and preferences different from your own. The exercise is a starting point for empathy, not a substitute for asking what they actually want. A considerate application combines perspective-taking with listening, so that your own tastes do not become the standard imposed on everyone else.
When to use it
Use it to encourage perspective-taking and fair treatment in an ordinary interaction.
Keep in mind
People’s preferences differ; treat the other person’s expressed needs as relevant, not just your own.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English