The trouble with a great many men is that they spread…
“The trouble with a great many men is that they spread themselves out over too much ground. They fail in everything. If they would only put their life into one channel, and keep it in, they would accomplish something. They make no impression because they do a little work here and a little work there…Lay yourselves on the altar of God, and then concentrate on some one work.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Spreading effort across many pursuits dilutes impact; concentrating on one purpose yields achievement.
In simple terms: Focus on one goal to succeed.
Key Takeaway
Choose a single mission and pursue it relentlessly.
Themes
focus
discipline
achievement
Mood
determined
serious
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career planning
- personal projects
- business strategy
- skill mastery
Key Concepts
specialization
goal setting
productivity
Questions to Reflect On
- What single goal could you commit to?
- How do you balance focus with flexibility?
A Different Perspective
Over‑specialization can limit adaptability.