The Chinese proverb “风向变时，有人镜墙，有人造风车” (fēng xiàng biàn shí, yǒu rén jìng qiáng, yǒu rén zào fēng chē) carries the meaning that when the wind changes direction, some people build walls while others build windmills. Here’s an explanation of its meaning:

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   Mirroring the Wall:

   When the wind changes direction, some individuals choose to mirror the wall, which implies they resist change and cling to the existing situation. They build metaphorical walls, representing their resistance to adapt and their unwillingness to embrace new opportunities. They prefer to maintain the status quo, even when it may not be beneficial or conducive to progress.

2. Building Windmills:

   On the other hand, when the wind changes direction, some people choose to build windmills. They actively respond to change by innovating and adapting to new circumstances. They recognise the shifting winds as an opportunity for growth and development. By building metaphorical windmills, they harness the power of change and turn it into a source of advantage or success.

The proverb serves as a metaphor for different approaches to change and challenges in life. It highlights the contrasting attitudes and actions of individuals when faced with new circumstances or opportunities.

Examples of how this proverb can be applied in various contexts include:

1. Business and Entrepreneurship:

   In the business world, when market trends change, those who mirror the wall may resist adopting new strategies or technologies, clinging to outdated practices. Conversely, those who build windmills proactively embrace change, explore innovative solutions, and adapt their business models to stay competitive and seize new opportunities.

2. Personal Growth and Development:

   When individuals encounter personal challenges or changes, those who mirror the wall may resist personal growth, avoiding new experiences or opportunities for fear of the unknown. Meanwhile, those who build windmills embrace change as a chance for self-improvement, learning, and personal development. They actively seek new knowledge, skills, and experiences to propel themselves forward.

Overall, the proverb “风向变时，有人镜墙，有人造风车” reminds us that when faced with change, there are different responses. Some may resist and cling to the past, while others embrace and leverage change as an opportunity for growth. It encourages individuals to adopt a proactive and adaptable mindset, seeking to build windmills rather than mirroring walls, in order to thrive in an ever-changing world.