What does this quote mean?

“Well done is better than well said.”

Franklin gives execution priority over impressive promises or intentions.

Source note: Poor Richard’s Almanack.

“Procrastination is the thief of time. Collar him!”

Delay is personified as a thief because it quietly removes time that cannot later be recovered.

Source note: David Copperfield; Mr. Micawber’s advice.

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”

Enthusiasm is treated as the emotional force that turns ideas into sustained effort rather than leaving them as passive intentions.

Source note: Essay “Circles,” in Essays: First Series; the line closes a passage about energetic action.

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.”

The instruction favors wholehearted effort in the work available now rather than waiting for a perfect task or perfect mood.

Source note: Ecclesiastes 9:10, King James Version.

“Hide not your talents. They for use were made. What’s a sundial in the shade?”

Ability has little practical value when it is permanently hidden; talent becomes useful through application and visibility.

Source note: Poor Richard’s Almanack.

“Do your work quietly.”

Useful work does not need constant display; quiet concentration can keep attention on the quality of the task rather than recognition for performing it.

Source note: Character Building, “Some Great Little Things,” Project Gutenberg #60484. Washington places this instruction among small daily habits of order, quiet, cleanliness, reading and reflection that he treats as important parts of character formation.