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Every human being is limited in terms of their ability. There is just no way around this. Nature has distributed both her talents and her potentials in an unequal fashion. Not everyone can run a four-minute mile and not everyone can craft a beautiful symphony. While we can improve, our ability to improve comes with natural and social limitations.
What everyone can do, however, is aspire to do their best. Doing the best that we can do is what every person is called to do in our life.
Aspiring to do “your best” is not a call to submission, failure, and mediocrity. On the contrary, it is a call to do anything and everything that you can do to confront a given situation every time that you encounter it. This is an opportunity for people of any level of ability or aptitude to struggle and to strive — to achieve to the best of their abilities.
It is a liberating concept, one that allows us to cease comparing ourselves to others and simply focus on being the best that we can be. The only person that we are in competition with is ourselves and who we were the day before.
The greats of human history understood and recognized this. Rather than resting on the pedestal of their superior talents, they always strove to do their best. Here’s what some of them have to say on the matter.
Quotes About Always Trying Your Best and Doing What You Can
Ayn Rand
“Live and act within the limit of your knowledge and keep expanding it to the limit of your life. Redeem your mind from the hockshops of authority. Accept the fact that you are not omniscient, but playing a zombie will not give you omniscience—that your mind is fallible, but becoming mindless will not make you infallible—that an error made on your own is safer than ten truths accepted on faith, because the first leaves you the means to correct it, but the second destroys your capacity to distinguish truth from error.”
– Ayn Rand
Ayn Rand’s quote advocates for intellectual autonomy and the pursuit of knowledge through individual inquiry and critical thinking. She emphasizes the importance of living and acting based on one’s own understanding while continuously seeking to expand one’s knowledge throughout life. Rand cautions against blind acceptance of authority and the dangers of mindless conformity, urging individuals to exercise their reasoning faculties and question established truths. She asserts that acknowledging one’s fallibility is essential for intellectual growth, as it allows for self-correction and the discernment of truth. Rand’s quote encourages a commitment to intellectual independence and the rejection of uncritical adherence to dogma or tradition.
The Arcturians
“Your work is not to drag the world kicking and screaming into a new awareness. Your job is to simply do your work…Sacredly, Secretly, and Silently….and those with ‘eyes to see and ears to hear’ will respond.”
The Arcturians’ quote emphasizes the importance of personal integrity and dedication to one’s work. It suggests that individuals should focus on fulfilling their duties diligently and authentically, without trying to forcibly impose their views or values onto others. Instead, by embodying their principles with sincerity and humility, they may inspire those who are receptive to their message. This perspective underscores the power of leading by example and trusting that genuine actions will resonate with those who are open to change or growth.
Gordon B. Hinckley
“Do your best, and be a little better than you are.”
Gordon B. Hinckley’s quote encapsulates the essence of continuous self-improvement and striving for excellence. It encourages individuals to give their utmost effort in all endeavors while also aspiring to surpass their current capabilities. This perspective emphasizes the importance of setting high standards for oneself and continuously seeking opportunities for growth and development. Hinckley’s quote serves as a reminder to embrace the journey of personal advancement, always aiming to exceed one’s previous accomplishments and become the best version of oneself.
Audrey Hepburn
“I tried always to do better: saw always a little further. I tried to stretch myself.”
Audrey Hepburn’s quote reflects her commitment to personal growth and self-improvement. It encapsulates a mindset of continuous striving and expansion, where she endeavored to surpass her previous achievements and extend her boundaries. This perspective highlights the importance of pushing oneself beyond comfort zones and embracing new challenges in the pursuit of excellence. Hepburn’s words serve as a testament to the power of ambition and resilience in realizing one’s potential and leaving a lasting impact on the world.
Clarissa Pinkola Estés
“Ours is not the task of fixing the entire world at once, but of stretching out to mend the part of the world that is within our reach.”
Clarissa Pinkola Estés’ quote emphasizes the importance of focusing on what is within our sphere of influence and taking action to enact positive change in our immediate surroundings. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of global issues, Estés encourages individuals to concentrate their efforts on addressing the problems they can directly impact. This perspective underscores the significance of localized efforts and grassroots activism in effecting meaningful transformation. Estés’ words inspire individuals to channel their energy into making a tangible difference in their communities, recognizing that collective small actions can lead to significant and lasting improvements in the world.
Dick Van Dyke
“As I’d found time and again throughout my life—and would continue to find—you do what you can, say your prayers, and hope for the best.”
Dick Van Dyke’s quote encapsulates a pragmatic yet hopeful approach to life’s challenges. It acknowledges the inevitability of uncertainty and adversity while advocating for resilience and faith. Van Dyke suggests that in the face of difficulty, individuals should take action to the best of their ability, rely on their inner strength, and maintain optimism for positive outcomes. This perspective highlights the importance of perseverance and maintaining a positive outlook, even in the midst of uncertainty. Van Dyke’s words serve as a reminder to face life’s trials with courage, determination, and hopeful anticipation.
Parmahansa Yoganandya
“We should learn to do our best and let the results take care of themselves. We cannot please all, however we may try; someone is sure to find fault and criticize. Certain ones may fail to see the purpose or object of our work. Others may not appreciate the efforts we have put forth to please all. We must therefore place ourselves above the likes and dislikes of people and go on doing our work, leaving no stones unturned in our efforts to bring about success. We should not seek refuge in inaction, thinking ‘Of what avail are these painful works if their fruits are not desired?’ Nor should we be fatalists, believing that what is to be will be, whether we put forth our best efforts to bring it about or not. Nor should we expect to be successful in all our attempts. Some ventures may fail, but others will be successful. Success and failure are interrelated; one cannot exist without the other. Life would not be pleasant if we had either success or failure all the time. So we should not become egotistical and overpowered with pride if we find abundant success; nor should we lose heart and become discouraged if we meet failure. We must cultivate strength and will power, so that we will not be overwhelmed by failure. We should approach our nearest problem or duty with concentrated energy and execute it to perfection. This should be our philosophy of life.”
Paramahansa Yogananda’s quote advocates for a balanced and resilient approach to life’s challenges. It encourages individuals to strive for excellence in their endeavors while accepting that success and failure are inevitable parts of the journey. Yogananda emphasizes the importance of focusing on the task at hand with dedication and diligence, regardless of external criticism or the opinions of others. He suggests maintaining a steadfast resolve and avoiding both complacency in success and despondency in failure. Instead, individuals should cultivate inner strength and determination to persevere through adversity and continue striving for personal and professional fulfillment. Yogananda’s philosophy promotes a mindset of resilience, self-reliance, and unwavering commitment to one’s goals, regardless of the outcomes.
Parmahansa Yoganandya
“Always remember: your Father loves you unconditionally. But because He has given you freedom to go away from Him or to approach Him, He is waiting for you to express your desire for His love before He comes to you. Once when I was meditating I heard His voice, whispering: ‘Thou dost say I am away, but thou didst not come in. That is why thou dost say I am away. I am always in. Come in and thou wilt see Me. I am always here, ready to greet thee.’”
Paramahansa Yogananda’s quote conveys the idea of God’s unconditional love and constant presence in our lives. He reminds individuals that despite any feelings of separation, God is always accessible and ready to offer love and guidance. Yogananda uses a metaphorical dialogue between God and the individual to illustrate the invitation to seek divine connection through sincere desire and inner longing. The quote emphasizes the importance of exercising free will to choose to approach God and experience His love firsthand. Yogananda’s message encourages individuals to recognize and embrace the ever-present opportunity for spiritual communion and inner fulfillment.
Bob Cousy
“Do your best when no one is looking. If you do that, then you can be successful at anything you put your mind to.”
Bob Cousy’s quote underscores the importance of personal integrity and commitment to excellence. He encourages individuals to maintain a high standard of effort and dedication, even when there is no external scrutiny or expectation. Cousy suggests that by consistently striving for excellence in all endeavors, individuals can achieve success in any pursuit they undertake. This perspective highlights the significance of self-discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic in achieving personal and professional goals. Cousy’s quote serves as a reminder that true success is rooted in individual effort and character, regardless of external recognition or supervision.
Albert Einstein
“We have to do the best we can. This is our sacred human responsibility.”
Albert Einstein’s quote emphasizes the fundamental duty of individuals to strive for their best efforts in life. He underscores the inherent responsibility that comes with being human, suggesting that it is incumbent upon each person to exert their utmost capabilities in all endeavors. This perspective highlights the importance of personal accountability and commitment to excellence in fulfilling one’s role in the world. Einstein’s words serve as a reminder of the significance of conscientious effort and dedication to making a positive impact, both individually and collectively, in the pursuit of progress and fulfillment.
Benjamin Franklin
“Doing your best means never stop trying.”
Benjamin Franklin’s quote encapsulates the essence of perseverance and continuous improvement. He emphasizes that the pursuit of excellence requires ongoing effort and determination, urging individuals to persist in their endeavors without relenting. Franklin’s words underscore the importance of resilience and the willingness to push beyond obstacles and setbacks in the pursuit of personal and professional goals. By advocating for a mindset of relentless striving, Franklin highlights the transformative power of sustained effort in achieving success and self-fulfillment.
Jesus
“A man casts seed into the ground, sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows, he knows not how.”
– Jesus, Mark 4:26-29, The Message
Jesus’ quote from the book of Mark in The Message version emphasizes the mystery and wonder of growth and development. It illustrates the natural process of sowing seeds, highlighting the farmer’s trust in the inherent life force within the seed itself. This quote conveys the idea that there are elements of life and creation that transcend human understanding, inviting reflection on the mysteries of nature and the divine. It encourages humility and faith in the unfolding of life’s processes, even when we may not fully comprehend them.
Peruvian proverb
“Little by little one walks far.”
The Peruvian proverb succinctly captures the essence of gradual progress and perseverance. It emphasizes the significance of consistent effort and incremental steps in achieving significant accomplishments. This quote serves as a reminder that even small actions, when taken consistently over time, can lead to substantial achievements. It encourages individuals to remain patient and persistent in pursuing their goals, recognizing that steady progress, no matter how slow, ultimately leads to success.
Thomas Jefferson
“Ignorance is preferable to error, and he is less remote from the truth who believes nothing than he who believes what is wrong.”
Thomas Jefferson’s quote underscores the importance of skepticism and critical thinking in the pursuit of truth. He suggests that maintaining a state of ignorance, where one acknowledges their lack of knowledge, is preferable to embracing false beliefs. Jefferson implies that an open-minded skepticism, characterized by a willingness to question and doubt, brings individuals closer to truth than unquestioning acceptance of misinformation. This quote emphasizes the value of intellectual humility and the necessity of discernment in navigating the complexities of knowledge and belief.
Ronald Reagan
“Whatever history may say of me when I’m gone, I hope it will say that I appealed to your best hopes, not your worst fears, to your confidences rather than your doubts.”
Ronald Reagan’s quote reflects his desire to be remembered for inspiring optimism and confidence rather than instilling fear and doubt. He expresses a hope that his legacy will be one of uplifting and encouraging people to pursue their highest aspirations. Reagan’s words convey his belief in the power of positive leadership and the importance of fostering hope and trust among the populace. This quote encapsulates his vision of leadership as guiding people towards their better selves and collective progress, rather than dwelling on negativity or division.
William McRaven
“I sometimes fell short of being the best, but I never fell short of giving it my best.”
William McRaven’s quote encapsulates the essence of dedication and perseverance in striving for excellence. He acknowledges that while he may not always have achieved the highest standard, he consistently exerted his utmost effort in every endeavor. This quote underscores the importance of commitment and resilience, emphasizing the value of giving one’s best in all circumstances, regardless of the outcome. McRaven’s words serve as a reminder that true success lies not solely in achieving perfection, but in the unwavering determination to continuously improve and give one’s all.
Hellen Keller
“When we do the best that we can, we never know what miracle is wrought in our life, or in the life of another.”
Helen Keller’s quote highlights the transformative power of doing one’s best. She suggests that by exerting maximum effort, individuals can bring about unexpected and profound positive changes, both in their own lives and in the lives of others. Keller’s words underscore the significance of perseverance and dedication, emphasizing that the impact of sincere effort extends far beyond what one can anticipate. This quote serves as a reminder of the potential for miracles to unfold through acts of determination and commitment to excellence.
Charles F. Bolden, Jr.
“Always do your best in whatever you do;
set goals and seek challenges;
become a role model for those coming behind you; and
always have God in your heart.”
Charles F. Bolden, Jr.’s quote encapsulates a comprehensive philosophy for personal and spiritual growth. He emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence in all endeavors, setting ambitious goals, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Additionally, Bolden underscores the significance of serving as a positive example for others, particularly those who follow in one’s footsteps. Finally, he highlights the importance of faith and spirituality, suggesting that maintaining a connection with God can provide guidance, strength, and purpose in life. This quote offers a holistic approach to living a fulfilling and meaningful life, rooted in personal integrity, ambition, leadership, and spiritual grounding.
Dale Carnegie
“Don’t be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one it makes you that much stronger. If you do little jobs well, the big one will tend to take care of themselves.”
Dale Carnegie’s quote emphasizes the importance of diligence and excellence in every task, regardless of its size. He encourages individuals not to underestimate the significance of seemingly minor responsibilities, as mastering them contributes to personal growth and resilience. Carnegie suggests that by consistently excelling in small tasks, individuals develop the skills, confidence, and discipline needed to tackle larger challenges effectively. This quote underscores the principle that success is built upon a foundation of dedication and proficiency in all endeavors, regardless of their scale.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
“If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run, then walk, if you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.’s quote encapsulates the essence of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. He underscores the importance of perseverance and continuous effort, urging individuals to maintain forward momentum regardless of the obstacles they encounter. King’s words inspire a sense of hope and empowerment, reminding us that progress can be achieved through incremental steps, no matter the challenges we face. This quote serves as a powerful call to action, encouraging individuals to remain steadfast in their pursuit of positive change and to never lose sight of their goals, regardless of the circumstances.