Practice Logic, Common Sense and Tact
When a man can give a good reason for what he does he practices logic. Not excuses for doing what he should not do, but REASONS why.
When he gives good reasons, and follows the universal practice of other men under the same circumstances, he practices common sense.
When he does things in a quiet, unobtrusive, and agreeable manner, so that other men are satisfied with his way, he practices tact.
These three qualities are badges of success among every nation and in every occupation, trade, or profession.
The business and professional resourcefulness of every man is not measured upon the quantity of his learning, or his high proficiency, but according to his ability to apply what he knows to the matter in hand.
A man may be able to measure the stars, and yet not be able to saw a board straight. Such a man may know much but he makes a poor carpenter.
A man should reason with himself as to the best way of doing anything, and then do it, giving good reasons for it.
Common sense is good judgment applied to the every day things of life, and tact is doing those things without disturbing others or by considering their feelings with as much care as you do your own.
To use a common expression: “You have got to worm things out of the world, but you must do it as gently as inserting a corkscrew in a stubborn cork.”