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There is an old motto that runs, "If at first you don't…

“There is an old motto that runs, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." This is nonsense. It ought to read, "If at first you don't succeed, quit, quit at once."” quote by Stephen Leacock
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“There is an old motto that runs, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." This is nonsense. It ought to read, "If at first you don't succeed, quit, quit at once."”

Stephen Leacock

About This Quote

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

The usual encouragement to persist is flawed; sometimes quitting is wiser.

In simple terms: Sometimes quitting is smarter than persisting.

Key Takeaway

Know when to stop and change direction.

Themes

perseverance failure quit

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • career setbacks
  • creative projects
  • personal goals

Key Concepts

psychology motivation decision making

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is quitting a sign of strength?
  • How do you differentiate persistence from stubbornness?
A Different Perspective

Quitting can be seen as giving up, harming reputation.

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