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If we try and fail, we have temporary disappointments. But…

“If we try and fail, we have temporary disappointments. But if we do not try at all, we have permanent regrets.” quote by Bernard Williams
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“If we try and fail, we have temporary disappointments. But if we do not try at all, we have permanent regrets.”

Bernard Williams

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Contrasts temporary disappointment from trying with permanent regret from never trying; encourages action.

In simple terms: Trying leads to temporary setbacks, not trying leads to regret.

Key Takeaway

Take action despite fear of failure.

Themes

risk regret action

Mood

motivational cautious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • personal goals
  • entrepreneurship

Key Concepts

ethics existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What risks are worth taking?
  • How do you measure regret vs. failure?
A Different Perspective

May ignore realistic constraints.

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