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“Whatever we succeed in doing is a transformation of something we have failed to do. Thus, when we fail, it is only because we have given up.” quote by Paul Valery
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“Whatever we succeed in doing is a transformation of something we have failed to do. Thus, when we fail, it is only because we have given up.”

Paul Valery

About This Quote

Source Essay: On Failure and Success, 1913

Success is the result of overcoming past failures; giving up is the only true cause of failure.

In simple terms: Failure occurs when we quit, not when we try.

Key Takeaway

Persist despite setbacks.

Themes

failure success resilience determination

Mood

determined optimistic reflective

Type

motivational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • entrepreneurship
  • academic research
  • personal development
  • sports training

Key Concepts

growth mindset self‑efficacy learning from mistakes

Questions to Reflect On

  • What internal habits turn failure into growth?
  • How do external constraints affect perseverance?
A Different Perspective

Success may also depend on external factors beyond personal effort.

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