When a friend is in trouble, don't annoy him by asking if there is anything you can do. Think up something appropriate and do it.
E. W. HoweRead
Some men storm imaginary Alps all their lives, and die in the foothills cursing difficulties which do not exist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often create imaginary challenges in their minds that prevent them from taking action.
This quote by E. W. Howe suggests that many individuals spend their lives struggling against perceived obstacles that are not real, rather than confronting the actual challenges they face. It highlights the tendency of people to become so consumed by their fears and doubts that they fail to see the path forward, ultimately leading to frustration and regret over wasted potential.
Themes
FearObstaclesPotentialChallengesAction
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to encourage people to embrace their true potential.
More from E. W. Howe
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Reading well is one of the greatest pleasures that solitude can afford you.
Harold BloomRead
I am lucky to be what I am! Thank goodness I'm not just a clam, or a ham, or a dusty jar of sour gooseberry jam! I am what I am - that's a great thing to be!
Dr. SeussRead
When my enemies stop hissing, I shall know I'm slipping.
Maria CallasRead
'And how, who am I? I will remember, if I can! I'm determined to do it!' But being determined didn't help much.
Lewis CarrollRead
When the phone started ringing too many times, I had to take it back to what I can handle. I take my chances on a job or a person as opposed to a situation. I don't like to have a situation placed over my head.
Bill MurrayRead
When you lose the ability to step up and hit the ball as hard and as far as you want, that also affects your ability to will the ball to go where you want it to go, if you know what I mean.
Arnold PalmerRead