Greatness is not found in possessions, power, position, or prestige. It is discovered in goodness, humility, service, and character.
William Arthur WardRead
'If only' is the excuse of the loser; 'I can' is the affirmation of the winner.
Interpretation
What this quote means
'If only' signifies regret and defeat, while 'I can' represents determination and success.
This quote contrasts two attitudes towards life; it emphasizes that those who dwell on missed opportunities or limitations ('If only') are likely to see themselves as losers, while those who adopt a proactive and positive mindset ('I can') are more likely to succeed. It encourages a focus on self-empowerment and the belief that with effort and determination, one can achieve their goals.
Themes
MotivationSuccessDeterminationAffirmation
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to encourage young athletes to believe in their abilities.
More from William Arthur Ward
All quotes βThe optimist lives on the peninsula of infinite possibilities; the pessimist is stranded on the island of perpetual indecision.
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Four steps to achievement: Plan purposefully. Prepare prayerfully. Proceed positively. Pursue persistently.
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A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.
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Change, like sunshine, can be a friend or a foe, a blessing or a curse, a dawn or a dusk.
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Do more than be fair: be kind.
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