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We tend to get what we expect, and if we expect nothing we…

“We tend to get what we expect, and if we expect nothing we get nothing. The stream cannot rise higher than its fountainhead;” quote by Orison Swett Marden
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““We tend to get what we expect, and if we expect nothing we get nothing. The stream cannot rise higher than its fountainhead;””

Orison Swett Marden

About This Quote

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

Expectations shape outcomes; lacking expectations leads to lack of results, and the source determines the ceiling of achievement.

In simple terms: Expectations set limits.

Key Takeaway

Your mindset determines your results.

Themes

mindset expectations achievement cause and effect self-fulfilling prophecy

Mood

determined reflective

Type

motivational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • personal development
  • team leadership
  • project forecasting

Key Concepts

expectation theory goal setting psychology of motivation

Practical Applications

  • coaching sessions
  • motivational workshops

Questions to Reflect On

  • What expectations are you holding that limit you?
  • How can you raise your 'fountainhead' to expand possibilities?
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