“This above all: to thine own self be trueThe reasoning provides a virtuous pattern, provided one accepts that lying and deceit are morally abhorrent behavior. Being false could come purposefully to ones benefit, but it could also lead to misguided actions such that ultimately, undesired outcomes are produced simply because of self deceit.
And it must follow, as the night the day
Thou canst not then be false to any man/Farewell, my blessing season this in thee!”
The problem with all of this is that change often requires, well, a change of heart. What is true today about oneself may not be true tomorrow. With the change of heart, is there admission of being false in the past? Or perhaps the better sentiment to the Hamlet quote is
This above all: to strive to be true to thine own self.Here we acknowledge the challenge of knowing oneself. Socrates preceded Shakespeare with 'Know thyself.' But there is more.
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”
"To find yourself, think for yourself."
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."