“Because a thing seems difficult for you, do not think it impossible for anyone to accomplish.”
- April 26, 121 – March 17, 180
- Roman Empire
- Roman Emperor
- Influenced by Stoic philosophy, he wrote “Meditations” and practiced ideal governance as a philosophical leader, and was later praised as one of the Five Good Emperors.
Quote
“Because a thing seems difficult for you, do not think it impossible for anyone to accomplish.”
Explanation
In this quote, Marcus Aurelius encourages us not to be deterred by the difficulty of a task, reminding us that just because something seems challenging to us does not mean it is impossible for others. This perspective is rooted in Stoic philosophy, which teaches that we should not measure our abilities or the potential of a task based on our initial impressions or self-doubt. What seems difficult at first may be attainable with effort, perseverance, and the proper mindset. It is a reminder that difficulty is not the same as impossibility—what may be hard for one person can still be accomplished by others with different strengths, experiences, or approaches.
Aurelius himself faced numerous challenges as the ruler of the Roman Empire, yet he maintained a Stoic commitment to resilience and action in the face of adversity. He would have understood that success in any endeavor comes from persistence and the understanding that just because something feels impossible initially, it is not a sign of failure—it may simply require different strategies, more time, or a shift in approach. Today, this quote remains valuable in overcoming self-limiting beliefs and approaching tasks with the mindset that, with effort, any challenge can be surpassed.
In practical terms, this quote urges us to approach challenges with humility and determination. When facing a difficult project, personal goal, or complex situation, instead of assuming it is beyond our ability, we can remind ourselves that difficulty is often a step toward growth. For example, learning a new skill or navigating a challenging relationship may seem overwhelming at first, but by observing others who have succeeded, we can realize that what seems impossible at the start is often achievable with the right approach and mindset. By cultivating this perspective, we are less likely to give up prematurely and more likely to approach difficulties with confidence and resilience.
