It is one thing to study war and another to live the warrior's life.
Steven PressfieldRead
Late at night have you experienced a vision of the person you might become, the work you could accomplish, the realized being you were meant to be? Are you a writer who doesn't write, a painter who doesn't paint, an entrepreneur who never starts a venture? Then you know what Resistance is.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote encourages individuals to confront their inner barriers to achieving their potential.
In this quote, Steven Pressfield addresses the concept of 'Resistance', which embodies the self-doubt and obstacles that prevent people from pursuing their true passions and capabilities. He prompts readers to reflect on their dreams and the excuses that hinder them from realizing their potential, encouraging them to overcome these barriers and take action towards their goals.
Themes
PotentialResistanceActionDreamsSelf-Doubt
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech at a writers' workshop.
More from Steven Pressfield
All quotes →The amateur believes he must first overcome his fear; then he can do his work. The professional knows that fear can never be overcome. He knows there is no such thing as a fearless warrior or a dread-free artist.
Steven PressfieldRead
When we sit down day after day and keep grinding, something mysterious starts to happen... Unseen forces enlist in our cause; serendipity reinforces our purpose.
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You know, Hitler wanted to be an artist. At eighteen he took his inheritance, seven hundred kronen, and moved to Vienna to live and study... Ever see one of his paintings? Neither have I. Resistance beat him. Call it overstatement but I'll say it anyway: it was easier for Hitler to start World War II than it was for him to face a blank square of canvas.
Steven PressfieldRead
It’s better to be in the arena, getting stomped by the bull, than to be up in the stands or out in the parking lot.
Steven PressfieldRead
Rule of thumb: The more important a call or action is to our soul's evolution, the Resistance we will feel toward pursuing it.
Steven PressfieldRead
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