Alternatives Quote by Katherine Mansfield
“We can do whatever we wish to do provided our wish is strong enough. But the tremendous effort needed- one doesn't always want to make it-does one? ... But what else can be done? What's the alternative? What do you want most to do? That's what I have to keep asking myself, in the face of difficulties.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Doves of Venus by Katherine Mansfield, 1919
Strong desire fuels action, but desire alone may not guarantee the effort required; questioning true goals helps navigate difficulty.
In simple terms: Desire alone isn’t enough; ask what you truly want.
Key Takeaway
Clarify your deepest goal before acting.
Themes
motivation
self‑reflection
goal‑setting
Mood
determined
contemplative
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- personal challenges
- creative projects
- health goals
Key Concepts
willpower
effort
self‑inquiry
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly drives you?
- How can you strengthen your resolve?
A Different Perspective
If desire is weak, effort may never materialize.
![“[When asked how it felt to be a female prime minister:] I don't know: I've never experienced the alternative.” quote by Margaret Thatcher](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/324/margaret-thatcher-463_alternatives_when-asked-how-it-felt-to-be-a-female-pr_15081.jpg)
