Common sense (which, in truth, is very uncommon) is the best sense I know of: abide by it; it will counsel you best.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Firmness of purpose is one of the most necessary sinews of character, and one of the best instruments of success. Without it, genius wastes its efforts in a maze of inconsistencies.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Firmness of purpose is essential for character and success; without it, talent may go to waste.
This quote emphasizes the importance of having a resolute determination in achieving one's goals. Lord Chesterfield suggests that a strong sense of purpose is crucial for building character and achieving success, as it keeps one's efforts focused and prevents the waste of talent in indecision and inconsistency.
Themes
PurposeSuccessCharacterDeterminationTalent
In practice
Example use cases
Mention this quote in a motivational speech to inspire students to pursue their goals with determination.
More from Lord Chesterfield
All quotes →Never seem wiser, nor more learned, than the people you are with. Wear your learning, like your watch, in a private pocket: and do not merely pull it out and strike it; merely to show that you have one.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
If you can once engage people's pride, love, pity, ambition on your side, you need not fear what their reason can do against you.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Merit and knowledge will not gain hearts, though they will secure them when gained.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Firmness of purpose is one of the best instruments of success.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
Wit is so shining a quality that everybody admires it; most people aim at it, all people fear it, and few love it unless in themselves. A man must have a good share of wit himself to endure a great share of it in another.
Lord ChesterfieldRead
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