Skip to content

Ability is not something to be saved, like money, in the…

“Ability is not something to be saved, like money, in the hope that you can draw interest on it. The interest comes from the spending. Unused ability, like unused muscles, will atrophy. It is tragic to realize that the majority of human beings, even the so-called educated, call upon only the…” quote by Eleanor Roosevelt
Download Open image
“Ability is not something to be saved, like money, in the hope that you can draw interest on it. The interest comes from the spending. Unused ability, like unused muscles, will atrophy. It is tragic to realize that the majority of human beings, even the so-called educated, call upon only the smallest fraction of their potential capacity. They leave many talents dormant. They fail to develop their mental qualities. They are almost unaware of the degree of energy upon which they might call to build a full and rewarding life.”

Eleanor Roosevelt

About This Quote

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

Untapped abilities waste potential; active use develops talent and enriches life.

In simple terms: Use abilities, don’t hoard them.

Key Takeaway

Engage your talents daily.

Themes

potential self‑development growth purpose

Mood

thoughtful encouraging

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • skill workshops
  • personal coaching
  • education programs

Key Concepts

psychology human potential self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which talents are you neglecting?
  • How can you balance development and rest?
A Different Perspective

May cause burnout if overused without rest.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Eleanor Roosevelt

Explore all 612 Eleanor Roosevelt quotes

More Ability quotes

Browse all 9,990 Ability quotes