```
If a person doesn't make an effort, their thoughts will tend to be negative, their temper will flare, and their personality will progressively worsen, leading to all kinds of mistakes.
And when one's behavior is poor, it attracts all sorts of negative energy, causing a reluctance to try hard and setting one on the wrong path.
Diligence and good conduct are the two legs that propel a person towards the realization of their dreams; they should alternate in leading the way. If one leg is lame, one will face all sorts of resistance in their endeavors, leading to failure.
It is best if both legs are strong.
Ma Lin recalled that he was able to cling to Xiaoqing's capable "legs" largely because his thoughts were upright and he was responsible in his actions, making it easy for him to gain Xiaoqing's appreciation despite his lack of achievements.
