The more complete rendering of this concept is“while seeking to establish oneself,one strives also to establish others; while seeking to enhance oneself, one strives also to enhance others.”The concept was coined by Confucius (551-479BC) as an expression of his doctrine of being considerate, which requires people to understand and be considerate of others with their own feelings and aspirations, and putting themselves in the position of others. In terms of preferences and pursuits, if one wants to be established and enhance oneself, one must understand that others may want the same, and should assist them to do so.

When the man of perfect virtue seeks to establish himself, he seeks also to establish others; when he seeks to enhance himself, he strives also to enhance others. (The Analects)