The greatest obstacle to being heroic is the doubt whether one may not be going to prove one's self a fool; the truest heroism is, to resist the doubt; and the profoundest wisdom, to know when it ought to be resisted, and when to be obeyed.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Heroism involves resisting self-doubt, but wisdom requires knowing when to listen to that doubt.
- In plain terms
- Courage means fighting fear, but wisdom tells you when fear is right.
- What can you take from it?
- Resist doubt to be heroic, but use wisdom to know when to heed it.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When should you trust your fears?
- Is courage blind to risk?
Another view
Sometimes doubt is a valid warning that should not be ignored.
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