I am unwilling to accord to some small−minded and jealous individuals the satisfaction of having thwarted my efforts. These men are to me nothing more than microbes of a nasty disease. My project was retarded by laws of nature. The world was not prepared for it. It was too far ahead of time, but the same laws will prevail in the end and make it a triumphal success.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes resilience against criticism and the belief in eventual success despite obstacles.
In this quote, Nikola Tesla expresses his determination to overcome the negativity and jealousy of others who attempt to hinder his work. He portrays his critics as insignificant, likening them to germs of a disease that cannot diminish the larger vision he holds for his project. Tesla acknowledges that while his ideas may be premature and misunderstood now, he believes that the natural order will eventually validate his innovations and lead them to success. This reflects a deep-seated motivation to persevere in the face of adversity and to maintain faith in one's vision.
In practice
In a motivational speech to inspire entrepreneurs facing rejection.
Even matter called inorganic, believed to be dead, responds to irritants and gives unmistakable evidence of a living principle within. Everything that exists, organic or inorganic, animated or inert, is susceptible to stimulus from the outside.
Our senses enable us to perceive only a minute portion of the outside world.
Every living being is an engine geared to the wheelwork of the universe. Though seemingly affected only by its immediate surrounding, the sphere of external influence extends to infinite distance.
The history of science shows that theories are perishable. With every new truth that is revealed we get a better understanding of Nature and our conceptions and views are modified.
The Secretary of Hygiene or Physical Culture will be far more important in the cabinet of the President of the United States who holds office in the year 2035 than the Secretary of War.
Our virtues and our failings are inseparable, like force and matter. When they separate, man is no more.
If you want to turn a vision into reality, you have to give 100% and never stop believing in your dream.
We are not here to curse the darkness, but to light the candle that can guide us through that darkness to a safe and sane future.
If you want a thing--truly want it, want it so badly that you need it as you need air to breathe, then unless you die, you will have it. Why not? It has you. There is no escape. What a cruel and terrible thing escape would be if escape were possible
So many people along the way,whatever it is you aspire to do, will tell you it can't be done. But it all it takes is imagination. You dream. You plan. You reach. There will be obstacles. There will doubters. There will be mistakes. But with hard work, with belief, with confidence and trust in yourself and those around you, there no limits.
Before you start a goal - let's take care of our insecurities because they are going to surface when you put yourself in the crucible and you're suffering.
I'm not out there sweating for three hours every day just to find out what it feels like to sweat.
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