Thirukkural-On Wealth-On Wisdom-Kural-427

Akthari kalla thavar.

Men of wisdom know and are prepared for what is coming;

The ignorant do not know what is ahead of them.

Men of deep knowledge and understanding will surely be able to think and plan ahead. Foreseeing and planning for the future is an important aspect of effective management at the highest level.

Managers at the top will not be taken by surprise, even by some untoward developments because they have, to a large extent, foreseen what might happen. Perhaps, in just a few instances, they may even be in a position to influence likely developments. In any case, they will be prepared for what happens, and will not be subjected to any stunning shock, according to Rajaji. Their preparations will enable them to meet most developments half-way.

While the wise man will know what is likely to take place in the environment and society and, therefore, to himself, the ignorant man will not know what is going to happen to himself, and will just be caught napping.