Life Quote by Padgett Powell
““Can you imagine doing something in your life that will be fully satisfying and redeeming for your having tried to do it, whether you succeeded in it or failed, and that, correspondingly, would be fully shameful had you not tried to do it?””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Value of Trying,” The New Yorker, 2015
Attempting meaningful work, regardless of outcome, is essential; avoiding effort leads to regret and shame.
In simple terms: Trying is valuable even if you fail; not trying brings shame.
Key Takeaway
Commit to trying something meaningful now.
Themes
effort
risk
fulatisfaction
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
encouraging
When to use this quote
- career change
- artistic project
- learning a skill
- volunteering
Key Concepts
courage
existential meaning
growth mindset
Questions to Reflect On
- What meaningful project have you avoided?
- What would you learn from trying, regardless of result?
A Different Perspective
Success is not guaranteed; fear of failure can stall action.
