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A man with a half volition goes backwards and forwards…

“A man with a half volition goes backwards and forwards, and makes no way on the smoothest road; a man with a whole volition advances on the roughest, and will reach his purpose, if there be even a little worthiness in it. The man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder - a waif, a…” quote by Thomas Carlyle
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“A man with a half volition goes backwards and forwards, and makes no way on the smoothest road; a man with a whole volition advances on the roughest, and will reach his purpose, if there be even a little worthiness in it. The man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder - a waif, a nothing, a no man. Have a purpose in life and having it, throw such strength of mind and muscle into your work as God has given you.”

Thomas Carlyle

About This Quote

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

A person with weak will drifts on easy paths, while strong will pushes through difficulty to fulfill purpose.

In simple terms: Strong will overcomes obstacles; weak will stagnates.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate strong will to achieve goals.

Themes

purpose willpower determination adversity

Mood

determined inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • personal development
  • overcoming setbacks
  • leadership

Key Concepts

volition resilience goal‑setting

Questions to Reflect On

  • What purpose drives you?
  • How do you strengthen your will?
A Different Perspective

Strong will alone may not guarantee success without resources.

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