"The prudent see only the difficulties, the bold only the advantages, of a great enterprise; the hero sees both; diminishes the former and makes the latter preponderate, and so conquers"
- Johann Kaspar Lavater
About this Quote
This quote by Johann Kaspar Lavater talks to the value of having a balanced point of view when undertaking an excellent enterprise. The prudent individual sees only the difficulties, while the strong individual sees just the advantages. The hero, nevertheless, has the ability to see both the difficulties and the benefits, and is able to decrease the former and make the latter more prominent. This allows them to dominate the challenge and be successful in their undertaking.
This quote stresses the importance of having a well balanced perspective when handling a difficult task. It is important to acknowledge the possible problems and difficulties that may arise, however also to concentrate on the benefits and potential successes. By doing this, one can be much better prepared to face the obstacle and ultimately conquer it. This quote works as a suggestion that having a well balanced point of view is essential to success.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"