You learn things in adversity that you would never have discovered without trouble. There is always a seed of hope.
Og MandinoRead
Remember that no talent, no self-denial, no brains, no character, are required to set up in the fault-finding business. Nothing external can have any power over you unless you permit it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Criticism is easy and requires no special skills, but your power lies in your own choices.
This quote underscores the notion that anyone can criticize others without needing any special qualities to do so. However, it emphasizes that true empowerment comes from recognizing that external forces only have power over you if you allow them to, empowering you to take control of your own responses and choices.
Themes
CriticismPowerChoiceSelf-ControlEmpowerment
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting, you could use this quote to encourage a more positive outlook.
More from Og Mandino
All quotes →Why do we continue to breed little minds who can find no recompense for their own failures other than to belittle and mock the talents, even the dress, of others? When will everyone realize that we are all equal in the eyes of God?
Og MandinoRead
The only certain means of success is to render more and better service than is expected of you, no matter what the task may be. This is a habit followed by all successful people since the beginning of time. Therefore I saith the surest way to doom yourself to mediocrity is to perform only the work for which you are paid.
Og MandinoRead
Only God can shape a flower, but any foolish child can pull it to pieces.
Og MandinoRead
Each day is a special gift from God, and while life may not always be fair, you must never allow the pains, hurdles, and handicaps of the moment to poison your attitude and plans for yourself and your future.
Og MandinoRead
Obstacles are necessary for success because in selling, as in all careers of importance, victory comes only after many struggles and countless defeats. Yet each struggle, each defeat, sharpens your skills and strengths, your courage and your endurance, your ability and your confidence and thus each obstacle is a comrade-in-arms forcing you to become better... or quit. Each rebuff is an opportunity to move forward; turn away from them, avoid them, and you throw away your future.
Og MandinoRead
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I saved a man's life once," said Granny. "Special medicine, twice a day. Boiled water with a bit of berry juice in it. Told him I'd bought it from the dwarves. That's the biggest part of doct'rin, really. Most people'll get over most things if they put their minds to it, you just have to give them an interest.
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