Accomplishment Quote by Michel de Montaigne
“We cannot be held to what is beyond our strength and means; for at times the accomplishment and execution may not be in our power, and indeed there is nothing really in our own power except the will: on this are necessarily based and founded all the principles that regulate the duty of man.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "De l’Âme et de l’Esprit", Essais, 1580
Human capacity is limited; true power lies in will, not in external abilities, shaping moral duty.
In simple terms: Will is our true strength.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate will over circumstance.
Themes
will
human limits
ethics
personal responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- decision making
- personal growth
- adversity
Key Concepts
stoicism
moral philosophy
self‑governance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can will be exercised responsibly?
- What limits does will face?
A Different Perspective
Will alone cannot change external constraints.
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