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Average Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

“Commonplaceness, the surrender to the average, that good which is not bad but still the enemy of the best - That is our besetting danger.” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
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“Commonplaceness, the surrender to the average, that good which is not bad but still the enemy of the best - That is our besetting danger.”

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

About This Quote

Source Book: Faust, Part I, 1808

Settling for mediocrity blinds us to excellence; complacency threatens true achievement.

In simple terms: Average comfort hinders greatness.

Key Takeaway

Strive beyond the ordinary.

Themes

excellence complacency ambition

Mood

thoughtful motivational

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • career planning
  • artistic pursuit

Key Concepts

philosophical self‑improvement

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “average” cost you?
  • How can you resist settling?
A Different Perspective

Greatness requires risk and effort.

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