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Aim Quote by James Russell Lowell

“Not failure, but low aim, is crime.” quote by James Russell Lowell
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“Not failure, but low aim, is crime.”

James Russell Lowell

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Crime of Low Aspirations, 1885

Settling for mediocrity is a moral failing, not failure itself.

In simple terms: Low aims are a moral crime

Key Takeaway

Strive for higher aspirations

Themes

ethics motivation self‑improvement

Mood

determined reflective

Type

literary motivational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • career planning
  • creative pursuits

Key Concepts

moral philosophy goal theory personal development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your aspirations?
  • How to set ambitious yet healthy goals?
A Different Perspective

High goals can cause stress and burnout

2.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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