"Keep your shop, and your shop will keep you"

William Turner’s maxim, “Keep your shop, and your shop will keep you,” offers an enduring lesson about diligence, responsibility, and the reciprocal nature of effort and reward, especially within the context of business or personal enterprise. The phrase suggests a relationship between stewardship and sustenance, if one tends faithfully to their work, business, or responsibilities, these efforts will in turn provide security, stability, and livelihood.

At its core, this adage highlights the importance of active participation in the sphere of one’s commitments. A “shop” can be interpreted both literally, as a physical place of business, and metaphorically, as any project, goal, or duty undertaken. Tending to one’s shop means paying close attention to detail, maintaining order, ensuring quality, and interacting thoughtfully with customers or stakeholders. When a proprietor genuinely cares about the welfare and operation of their establishment, that dedication fosters a reputation for reliability, ensuring continued patronage and financial support.

Furthermore, the saying touches on a broader principle of self-reliance and personal agency. Rather than leaving outcomes to chance or outside forces, it suggests that one’s consistent hard work is foundational to success. Just as a neglected shop will dwindle and decay, so will any aspect of life that is left unattended. Conversely, invested effort not only preserves but enhances what one has, creating a virtuous cycle in which care breeds prosperity.

This ethos is applicable outside the business environment as well. Relationships, health, education, or personal development all require maintenance and commitment. By putting in the necessary time, attention, and energy, individuals reap rewards commensurate with their input. Turner’s words encapsulate timeless wisdom: our investments of care and labor are rarely wasted, for what we “keep”, that is, nurture and steward, will, in many ways, keep us.