"Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success"
- Pablo Picasso
About this Quote
Pablo Picasso’s statement encapsulates the intricate relationship between ambition, planning, belief, and action. He suggests that goals are not simply achieved through desire or random movement. Instead, they require a deliberate pathway—a "vehicle of a plan"—something tangible that guides effort and directs intention. Planning serves as the structure bridging where we are and where we hope to be.
Yet, Picasso acknowledges that planning alone is insufficient. Belief in the plan—described as fervent, passionate, and unwavering—is crucial. Without conviction, a plan becomes empty steps or rote habits, easily abandoned at the first sign of difficulty. Belief provides resilience and energy, empowering individuals to persevere through obstacles and setbacks. The emotional investment in both the goal and its process fuels the courage necessary to continue, especially in the face of adversity.
Action is the next essential element, and it must be vigorous. Picasso’s choice of "vigorously act" emphasizes that half-hearted or inconsistent effort rarely leads to meaningful results. Motion must match intention and belief; by applying energy and persistent effort to our plans, we transform potential into achievement. The act of working consistently toward a carefully crafted plan, fortified by strong belief, is what ultimately produces success.
By declaring "there is no other route to success", Picasso rejects shortcuts and luck as reliable methods for achievement. He underscores the formulaic nature of accomplishments: clear planning, deep-seated belief, and relentless action. Success, therefore, is framed not as a fleeting stroke of fortune but as the cumulative result of preparation, mindset, and exertion.
The wisdom is profound because it addresses common failures: neglecting to plan, lacking faith in our plans, or failing to act with purpose. Only when all three elements—plan, belief, and action—are intertwined do goals become accessible and real progress possible. Picasso’s insight remains timeless for any who seek to translate vision into reality.
About the Author