Failure Quote by Bertolt Brecht
““What are you working on?” Mr. K. was asked. Mr. K. replied: “I’m having a hard time; I’m preparing my next mistake.””
About This Quote
Source Play: The Good Person of Szechwan, Bertolt Brecht, 1943
The character admits to preparing for inevitable failure, highlighting humility and realistic self‑assessment.
In simple terms: Accept that mistakes happen and prepare for them.
Key Takeaway
Embrace humility, anticipate errors.
Themes
humility
self‑awareness
preparation
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- project planning
- creative work
- personal growth
- education
Key Concepts
risk management
learning mindset
Questions to Reflect On
- What strategies turn anticipated mistakes into learning?
- How can you balance preparation with confidence?
A Different Perspective
It may encourage fatalism rather than proactive improvement.
![“J.P. Morgan, then past 70, was asked by the son of an eminent father why he [Morgan] didn't retire. When did your father retire? asked Mr. Morgan, without looking up from his desk. In 1902. When did he die? Oh, at the end of 1904. Huh! snapped Mr. Morgan, If he had kept on working he would have…” quote by B. C. Forbes](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ef0/b-c-forbes-2124_alive_j-p-morgan-then-past-70-was-asked-by-the_1204135.jpg)
