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One of the commonest mistakes and one of the costliest is…

“One of the commonest mistakes and one of the costliest is thinking that success is due to some genius, some magic – something or other which we do not possess. Success is generally due to holding on, and failure to letting go.” quote by Maltbie Davenport Babcock
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“One of the commonest mistakes and one of the costliest is thinking that success is due to some genius, some magic – something or other which we do not possess. Success is generally due to holding on, and failure to letting go.”

Maltbie Davenport Babcock

About This Quote

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

Success comes from perseverance and letting go of failure, not from innate genius.

In simple terms: Persist and release failure for success.

Key Takeaway

Hold on, let go.

Themes

perseverance resilience humility

Mood

thoughtful encouraging

Type

spiritual self‑help

When to use this quote

  • personal setbacks
  • career challenges
  • relationship issues

Key Concepts

growth mindset self‑discipline acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you holding onto that hinders growth?
  • How can you practice letting go?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on effort can cause burnout.

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