Attitude Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“If you call a thing bad you do little, if you call a thing good you do much”
About This Quote
Source Play: Unknown, possibly early writings, 1790s
Labeling something as bad limits action; calling it good encourages effort.
In simple terms: Naming things bad stops you; naming them good motivates you.
Choose positive framing to inspire action.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- leadership
- education
- personal development
- team management
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What “bad” label might actually protect you?
- When does positive framing become complacency?
Positive labels may overlook real dangers.