Ability Quote by John Locke
“We are born with faculties and powers capable almost of anything, such at least as would carry us farther than can easily be imagined: but it is only the exercise of those powers, which gives us ability and skill in any thing, and leads us towards perfection.”
About This Quote
Source Book: An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, 1690
Locke argues that humans are born with innate potential, and through exercising these abilities we develop skill and move toward perfection.
In simple terms: We have natural abilities that grow with use.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate and practice your innate talents.
Themes
philosophy
self‑improvement
potential
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- education
- personal growth
- career development
- creative pursuits
Key Concepts
human nature
skill development
perfection
Questions to Reflect On
- What talents have you neglected?
- How does practice shape your abilities?
A Different Perspective
Potential may be limited by external circumstances or lack of opportunity.
![“F-A-I-L-I-N-G [is] Finding An Important Lesson, Inviting Needed Growth. So you don't actually fail, you find a better way to do whatever you're doing, and that's your ability, the truth of your core from past life experiences to where you are now in this life. It gives you the ability to be in…” quote by Gary Busey](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/043/gary-busey-9184_ability_f-a-i-l-i-n-g-is-finding-an-important-le_1426281.jpg)
![“[M]an is not permitted without censure to follow his own thoughts in the search of truth, when they lead him ever so little out of the common road.” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9bd/john-locke-814_censorship_m-an-is-not-permitted-without-censure-to_60175.jpg)
