Meaning: This quote by Marshall Field, a prominent American businessman, succinctly captures the essence of financial management and its impact on one's ability to navigate and influence the circumstances of life. The concept of surplus, or having more than what is immediately required, is a fundamental principle in personal finance and business strategy. Field's assertion that a person with a surplus can control circumstances while one without a surplus is controlled by them reflects the profound influence of financial resources on an individual's agency and decision-making capabilities.

The idea of surplus extends beyond mere financial wealth; it encompasses the concept of having resources, whether tangible or intangible, that exceed immediate needs. In the context of personal finance, a surplus can manifest as savings, investments, or assets that provide a buffer against unforeseen expenses or economic downturns. In business, a surplus may take the form of excess production capacity, strategic reserves, or a competitive advantage that allows an organization to dictate terms rather than being at the mercy of market forces.

The ability to control circumstances, as Field suggests, hinges on the possession of a surplus. When an individual or a business has a financial cushion or surplus resources, they are better equipped to withstand challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and make strategic decisions that align with their long-term goals. This control over circumstances can manifest in various ways, such as the ability to weather financial setbacks without severe repercussions, the freedom to pursue new ventures or investments, and the capacity to negotiate from a position of strength in business dealings.

Conversely, the absence of a surplus leaves individuals and businesses vulnerable to external forces, limiting their capacity to exercise judgment and shape their destinies. Without a surplus, financial constraints can dictate one's choices and actions, often leading to reactive decision-making driven by immediate needs rather than long-term considerations. This lack of agency can perpetuate a cycle of dependence on external factors, making it challenging to break free from constraints and seize opportunities for growth and advancement.

The quote also underscores the link between surplus and the exercise of judgment. When individuals and businesses have the luxury of surplus resources, they are afforded the mental and emotional space to deliberate, analyze, and make informed decisions. In contrast, those without a surplus may find themselves in a perpetual state of urgency, where survival takes precedence over thoughtful deliberation and strategic planning.

Marshall Field's perspective on surplus and its influence on control and judgment resonates across diverse contexts, from personal finance to organizational management. The principle of maintaining a surplus as a means of exerting control over circumstances aligns with timeless wisdom regarding the importance of prudence, foresight, and preparedness. In essence, the quote serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that financial stability and surplus resources play in shaping the autonomy and decision-making capacity of individuals and businesses.

In conclusion, Marshall Field's quote encapsulates the profound impact of having a surplus on an individual's ability to control circumstances and exercise judgment. Whether in personal finance or business strategy, the possession of surplus resources empowers individuals and organizations to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and make deliberate choices that align with their long-term objectives. Conversely, the absence of a surplus can relegate one to a position of vulnerability and reactive decision-making, limiting the capacity to shape one's destiny. By highlighting the correlation between surplus, control, and judgment, Field's quote serves as a timeless reminder of the pivotal role that financial stability plays in shaping human agency and autonomy.