I had made up my mind to find that for which I was…
““ I had made up my mind to find that for which I was searching even if it required the remainder of my life . After innumerable failures I finally uncovered the principle for which I was searching, and I was astounded at its simplicity. I was still more astounded to discover the principle I had revealed not only beneficial in the construction of a mechanical hearing aid but it served as well as means of sending the sound of the voice over a wire. Another discovery which came out of my investigation was the fact that when a man gives his order to produce a definite result and stands by that order it seems to have the effect of giving him what might be termed a second sight which enables him to see right through ordinary problems. What this power is I cannot say; all I know is that it exists and it becomes available only when a man is in that state of mind in which he knows exactly what he wants and is fully determined not to quit until he finds it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Determination and clear intent can unlock simple solutions to complex problems, leading to breakthroughs across fields.
In simple terms: Focus and persistence reveal simple answers.
Persist with clear goals.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- research labs
- entrepreneurship
- personal projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What problem could you simplify?
- How does focus change your approach?
Simplify may overlook nuance.