Men take on the nature and the habits and the power of thought of those with whom they associate in a spirit of sympathy and harmony.
Those who succeed in an outstanding way seldom do so before the age of 40. More often, they do not strike their real pace until they are well beyond the age of 50.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Success often comes later in life, particularly after age 40 or even 50.
Napoleon Hill's quote emphasizes that exceptional success is frequently achieved later in life, suggesting that many individuals may not fully realize their potential or reach significant accomplishments until they have accumulated more experience and wisdom. This reflection on the timelines of success encourages patience and perseverance, recognizing that the journey towards achieving greatness can take time and may be influenced by personal growth and maturity.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech encouraging young entrepreneurs, one could say, 'Remember, those who succeed often do so later in life, as Napoleon Hill once pointed out.'
More from Napoleon Hill
All quotes βNature yields her most profound secrets to the person who is determined to uncover them.
Man, alone, has the power to transform his thoughts into physical reality; man, alone, can dream and make his dreams come true.
One of the most common causes of failure is the habit of quitting when one is overtaken by temporary defeat.
Let nobody bribe you away from being yourself.
Every person who wins in any undertaking must be willing to cut all sources of retreat. Only by doing so can one be sure of maintaining that state of mind known as a burning desire to win - essential to success.
Similar quotes
Great work requires great and persistent effort for a long time. ... Character has to be established through a thousand stumbles.
All of the teams in this league that have won multiple championships, they didn't come out the gate winning. Sometimes you have to take those hits to understand what it takes to win.
Let's face it, we're not about to earn our way to wealth. That's a mistake millions of Americans make. We think that if we work harder, smarter, longer, we'll achieve our financial dreams, but our paycheck alone-no matter how big-isn't the answer.
Perseverance is a great element of success. If you only knock long enough and loud enough at the gate, you are sure to wake up somebody.
I have always found that my view of success has been iconoclastic: success to me is not about money or status or fame, its about finding a livelihood that brings me joy and self-sufficiency and a sense of contributing to the world.
Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple laws which govern its acquisition.