Strike While the Iron is Hot

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Take advantage of an opportunity immediately, while the conditions are most favorable.

In short: Timing + Action = Success.

It’s about acting fast, but not acting blindly. If the iron is hot but you don’t know where to strike, you can still ruin the work.

So, the proverb also implies: Prepare first, then move quickly when the moment arrives.

Origin

  • Blacksmithing Roots: In metalworking, an iron bar must be struck with a hammer while it’s glowing hot and malleable. Wait too long, and it cools, hardens, and becomes unshapable.
  • This physical process became a metaphor for acting at the peak moment in life, business, and relationships.