Ability Quote by Søren Kierkegaard
““What ability there is in an individual may be measured by the yardstick of how far there is between his understanding and his will . What a person can understand he must also be able to force himself to will . Between understanding and willing is where excuses and evasions have their being.””
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise: Either/Or, 1843
Understanding alone is insufficient; one must also will to act, bridging the gap between knowledge and action.
In simple terms: Knowledge must be paired with will to act.
Key Takeaway
Align understanding with decisive action.
Themes
philosophy
will
action
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- goal achievement
- overcoming excuses
Key Concepts
existentialism
ethical agency
Questions to Reflect On
- What prevents understanding from becoming action?
- How can one strengthen the will to act?
A Different Perspective
May underestimate external constraints on willpower.
