Try and fail, but don’t fail to try.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote “Try and fail, but don’t fail to try” speaks to the essence of perseverance and the importance of effort in the face of potential setbacks. At its core, this quote emphasizes that the act of trying is a fundamental part of achieving success, even if it does not always lead to immediate results.
In life, the prospect of failure can be daunting. The fear of making mistakes or not meeting expectations often paralyzes people, causing them to avoid taking action altogether. This quote challenges that mindset by suggesting that the mere act of trying is valuable in itself. Failure is not something to be feared but accepted as a possible outcome of the endeavor. The crucial part is not allowing the fear of failure to prevent one from making the attempt in the first place.
Historical examples can illustrate this idea powerfully. Take Thomas Edison, for instance, who is famously known for his numerous attempts to perfect the electric light bulb. He encountered thousands of failures in his experiments, but he never let those failures stop him from trying. Each failure was a lesson, a step closer to success. Edison’s persistence underscores that it’s not the failure that defines success but the relentless effort to keep trying despite setbacks.
Similarly, in sports, athletes like Michael Jordan are celebrated not only for their achievements but also for their attitude towards failure. Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team and faced numerous challenges throughout his career. However, he continually pushed himself to improve and try again, illustrating that perseverance and the willingness to face failure head-on are key to reaching one’s goals.
The quote also carries a broader life lesson: effort and courage are more significant than the outcome. When people try, they grow and learn, regardless of whether they achieve their initial goal. This growth and learning are often the true rewards of trying. So, even if one’s efforts do not lead to success right away, they are never wasted. They contribute to personal development, resilience, and a deeper understanding of one’s capabilities.
In summary, “Try and fail, but don’t fail to try” encourages embracing the process of trying, with its inherent risks of failure, as a vital part of growth and success. It reminds us that avoiding the attempt out of fear is a greater loss than any failure that might result from trying. The quote invites us to view each attempt as a valuable step in our journey, underscoring that the courage to try is itself a form of success.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Try and fail, but don't fail to try." is often attributed to John Quincy Adams (Quotes). John Quincy Adams, the sixth U.S. President, played a pivotal role in American diplomacy and politics during his era.
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.
