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About this quote

What does it mean?
Tree points out that potential is common, but action defines genius. Doing something turns possibility into reality.
In plain terms
Everyone could be great but only some do great things.
What can you take from it?
Action is what turns potential into actual achievement.

Where it applies

  • motivating others
  • critiquing laziness
  • self-reflection

Putting it to work

  • taking action
  • proving your skills

Questions to consider

  • Are you acting on your potential?
  • What defines genius?

Another view

It assumes doing one thing guarantees genius.

More from Herbert Beerbohm Tree

  1. My poor fellow, why not carry a watch?

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  2. Never say a humorous thing to a man who does not possess humour: he will always use it in evidence against you.

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  3. Ladies, just a little more virginity, if you don't mind.

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