Begin – to begin is half the work, let half still remain; again begin this, and thou wilt have finished.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote emphasizes the significance of taking the first step towards any endeavor. Often, the most challenging part of any task or project is simply initiating it. The initial step represents a critical milestone that sets the momentum for progress and eventual completion.
By urging us to begin, the quote suggests that starting an undertaking is the most substantial and transformative action we can take. The act of beginning propels us forward, breaking through inertia and creating the necessary conditions for further advancement. It acknowledges that once we overcome the initial hurdle of getting started, the subsequent steps become more manageable and the path towards completion becomes clearer.
Additionally, the quote implies that the journey towards accomplishment may involve multiple cycles of beginning. While initiating an endeavor is crucial, it is often not a one-time event. Challenges, setbacks, and the need for recalibration are natural aspects of any pursuit. Therefore, the quote advises us to persist in our efforts, even if we encounter obstacles along the way. By recommitting to the task and starting anew whenever necessary, we ultimately achieve the desired outcome.
In essence, this quote encapsulates the transformative power of initiating action. By recognizing that beginning is half the battle, it encourages us to overcome hesitation, fear, and procrastination. It reminds us that progress is achieved through taking that first step and embracing the subsequent steps as part of an ongoing process. Whether it is starting a personal project, pursuing a new goal, or embarking on a journey of self-improvement, the act of beginning sets us on a path of growth, learning, and eventual fulfillment.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Begin - to begin is half the work, let half still remain; again begin this, and thou wilt have finished." was said by Marcus Aurelius (Bio / Quotes). Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 161 until his death in AD 180.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
The quote "Begin - to begin is half the work, let half still remain; again begin this, and thou wilt have finished" reflects the concept that starting a task is a significant part of its completion. A historical example that vividly illustrates this is the construction of the Panama Canal.
In the early 20th century, the construction of the Panama Canal was a monumental project that faced numerous obstacles. Initiated by the French in the 1880s, the project struggled due to disease, engineering challenges, and financial issues. When the United States took over the project in 1904, the challenge seemed insurmountable. However, the U.S. team, led by figures like President Theodore Roosevelt and engineer John Stevens, began by addressing the most critical initial tasks—controlling disease and surveying the land.
Their initial steps, though daunting, were crucial. By starting with these foundational tasks, they made incremental progress. The quote’s message is evident here: the act of beginning—whether it was creating sanitary conditions or designing effective machinery—accounted for a substantial portion of the eventual success. The continued effort, after making these initial strides, eventually led to the completion of the canal in 1914. Thus, the initial effort was indeed half the work, and continued commitment saw the project to its finish.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
The quote "Begin - to begin is half the work, let half still remain; again begin this, and thou wilt have finished" can be particularly useful in personal and professional settings where tasks or projects seem overwhelming.
Imagine someone starting a new fitness regimen. The idea of incorporating a regular workout routine might seem daunting at first. The thought of consistently exercising several times a week can be intimidating. However, if the individual focuses on simply starting—perhaps by committing to a 15-minute workout or just walking around the block—the initial step is taken. This act of beginning can often be the hardest part and may build momentum.
Once the person overcomes the initial inertia, they are likely to continue with the routine, finding it easier to gradually increase the duration and intensity of their workouts. The key is that starting the process is half the battle won. By continuously beginning and progressing through each stage of their fitness journey, they are likely to achieve their health goals, demonstrating the essence of the quote.
In essence, the quote encourages breaking down daunting tasks into manageable steps, emphasizing that the act of beginning is a significant stride toward completion.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
