Final answer:
The statement advises prudence in making promises, suggesting that exceeding modest expectations is preferable to falling short of lofty ones, tying into principles of thoughtful preparation and integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "It is better to under promise and over deliver, than to over promise and under deliver" encapsulates a business and life philosophy that suggests managing expectations realistically can lead to better satisfaction and results. This approach involves being conservative with the promises or commitments one makes so that when the results exceed those promises, satisfaction and trust are boosted. Conversely, if one sets expectations too high from the start and fails to meet them, it can lead to disappointment and diminished trust. This principle echoes Confucian maxims, such as "Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure" and "The superior man acts before he speaks, and afterwards speaks according to his action", which emphasize the importance of thoughtfulness, preparation, and integrity in one's actions and promises.