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Adversity Quote by George Washington

“We must never despair; our situation has been compromising before, and it has changed for the better; so I trust it will again. If difficulties arise, we must put forth new exertion and proportion our efforts to the exigencies of the times.” quote by George Washington
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“We must never despair; our situation has been compromising before, and it has changed for the better; so I trust it will again. If difficulties arise, we must put forth new exertion and proportion our efforts to the exigencies of the times.”

George Washington

About This Quote

Source Speech: Farewell Address, George Washington, 1796

Hope that past improvements signal future betterment; adapt effort to current challenges.

In simple terms: Past improvements suggest future hope; adjust effort to challenges.

Key Takeaway

Adapt effort to current challenges.

Themes

hope resilience adaptation

Mood

determined optimistic

Type

motivational historical

When to use this quote

  • personal setbacks
  • business crises
  • policy making
  • team leadership

Key Concepts

optimism historical perspective strategic effort

Questions to Reflect On

  • How will you gauge when effort is proportionate?
  • What signs indicate a shift in circumstances?
A Different Perspective

Assumes past trends guarantee future outcomes, which may not hold.

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