“Whenever I’m about to do something, I think ‘would and idiot do that?’ And if they would, I do not do that thing.”

From: The Office (US)

Genre: Television

Who said it?: Andy Bernard

The story behind the quote: This week’s quote comes from the US version of The Office, which ran from 2005 to 2013. It was adapted from the BBC comedy show of the same name. The Office is essentially a mockumentary that takes place in the Scranton branch of the fictional company called Dunder Mifflin, a paper supply company.

The quote comes the episode “Business School.” During the opening minutes of the episode, Michael Scott (played by Steve Carell) asks the “assistant to the regional manager” Dwight Schrute (played by Rainn Wilson) asks him what is the best advice he’s ever given him. Dwight responds that the answer would be “don’t be an idiot.” He then expounds in a talking heads portion how he has demonstrated this in his life, delivering the quote.

Geek wisdom:  It’s always best to think before we act. Sometimes, even just a slight pause to contemplate how our actions will impact or affect others may be enough to conclude if something would be a good idea or a bad idea.