“If the cairn were not built, the magpie wouldn't have perched.”
Every outcome depends on the effort and preparation that came before it.
— Traditional Mongolia Wisdom, Mongolia
Source: Traditional Mongolia proverb, public-domain oral tradition
More Proverbs from Mongolia
A cat likes to eat fresh fish, but it will not go into the water.
People often want the reward without being willing to do the work required to earn it.
Traditional Mongolia Wisdom
Read more →
A donkey that carries me is worth more than a horse that kicks me.
A humble, reliable helper is worth more than someone impressive but untrustworthy.
Traditional Mongolia Wisdom
Read more →
A man fails seven times and rises eight times.
True resilience means getting up one more time than you fall.
Traditional Mongolia Wisdom
Read more →
A tiger wearing a bell will starve.
Announcing your intentions too loudly warns your prey, or your rivals, away.
Traditional Mongolia Wisdom
Read more →
Do not start if afraid; once begun, do not be afraid.
Weigh a decision carefully before committing, then pursue it without hesitation.
Traditional Mongolia Wisdom
Read more →
Don't undo your bootlaces until you have seen the river.
Do not relax or celebrate before an obstacle has actually been overcome.
Traditional Mongolia Wisdom
Read more →