Minding Your Own Business

A man who cannot mind his own business is not to be trusted with the king’s [business].

— George Savile

The meaning of the quote

The quote emphasizes the importance of discretion and the ability to handle one’s own affairs responsibly before being entrusted with more significant or important matters. In other words, it suggests that someone who meddles in other people’s affairs or cannot manage their own responsibilities should not be trusted with matters of greater significance, such as those related to the king or government. The quote highlights the idea that trust and responsibility go hand in hand, and individuals should prove their competence in smaller matters before being entrusted with larger ones.