When I was young, I believed that as long as I worked hard, success would follow. I chased every opportunity that came my way — big or small, high or low profit — thinking that every little gain would add up over time. But life taught me a different lesson: not every deal is worth doing, and not every dollar is worth the time, energy, and peace of mind it costs.
“Do not do business for small profits” — at first, it sounds like something a greedy person would say. In truth, it is the wisdom of those who have stumbled enough times to understand the value of discernment. Small profits often mean small value — little meaning, little joy. Every venture consumes a part of our life: sleepless nights, stressful decisions, and unseen risks. Sometimes, the little gain we earn cannot make up for what we lose along the way.
Those with experience know that the most precious capital is not money, but time and energy. Once we invest ourselves in something, it must be worth it. We work not only to earn a living, but to affirm our worth — to see that our effort creates something meaningful. That is why the seasoned ones no longer chase every deal; they refuse to trade inner peace for minor profit.
To avoid small profits is not to reject opportunity, but to choose what is worthy of one’s experience and vision. It is how a wise person avoids being trapped in the endless cycle of small gains, reserving strength for what truly matters — something greater and more lasting.
In the end, after many years of doing business, I’ve realized this: the most valuable lesson is not about how much you earn, but when to stop and what to choose. Only when we learn to say no to small profits can we begin to reach the truly meaningful rewards in life.
