a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

== English == === Alternative forms === a journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step a thousand-mile journey begins with the first step === Etymology === Calque from Chinese 千里之行，始於足下 (qiānlǐ zhī xíng, shǐyú zú xià), quoted by the Chinese philosopher Laozi in the Tao Te Ching. This quote is sometimes erroneously attributed to Laozi's contemporary, Confucius, or to the Japanese. === Pronunciation === === Proverb === a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step Even the longest and most difficult ventures have a starting point. 1981, Robert Leland Youngs, Forest products research needs and prospects (thinking globally, acting locally), Forest Products Laboratory, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture: The problems are great--but this means that the opportunities are also great. In this situation it is well to remember the ancient wise words of Lao Tzu "A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." ==== Synonyms ==== take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves many a mickle makes a muckle every little helps little and often fills the purse ==== Translations ====