The real distinction is between those who adapt their purposes to reality and those who seek to mold reality in the light of their purposes.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Kissinger distinguishes between pragmatic individuals who adjust their goals to fit actual conditions and idealists who try to force the world to match their vision.
- In plain terms
- Successful people adapt their goals to reality instead of trying to force reality to match their goals.
- What can you take from it?
- Adjust your plans to fit the world as it is, not as you wish it to be.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are you adapting to reality or trying to change it?
- Is your goal realistic given current constraints?
Another view
This view dismisses the value of visionary change that often requires reshaping reality.
More from Henry Kissinger
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Permalink to quote #48 The statesman's duty is to bridge the gap between his nation's experience and his vision.
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