jué绝cháng长bǔ补duǎn短
To use one's strengths or advantages to compensate for one's weaknesses or shortcomings; to leverage strong points to offset deficiencies.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Warring States period, Duke Wen of Teng met Mencius while passing through the State of Song from the State of Chu.
Mencius expounded on the inherent goodness of human nature and encouraged him to govern with the principles of the ancient sage-kings Yao and Shun. He also advised Duke Wen to "绝长补短" (leverage strengths to compensate for weaknesses), utilize regional advantages, and rule with benevolence, believing this could make the State of Teng a powerful nation.
Duke Wen listened to Mencius's discourse but neither agreed nor disagreed, merely responding with a smile.