“One thing is sure. We have to do something. We have to do the best we know how at the moment… If it doesn’t turn out right, we can modify it as we go along.”
- January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945
- American
- Politician
- [Achievements]
- As president of the United States, he promoted economic recovery from the Great Depression with the New Deal policy
- He led the Allied powers to victory in World War II
- [Criticism]
- His hard-line policy toward Japan triggered the attack on Pearl Harbor
- He pushed for the forced internment policy of Japanese Americans due to racist feelings toward the Japanese
- He promoted the Manhattan Project, a plan to develop the atomic bomb
Quote
“One thing is sure. We have to do something. We have to do the best we know how at the moment… If it doesn’t turn out right, we can modify it as we go along.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt emphasizes the importance of taking action even in uncertain or challenging circumstances. He acknowledges that in difficult situations, it is not always clear what the “perfect” solution might be, but the most crucial step is to act decisively based on the best available knowledge at the time. Roosevelt’s approach underscores the value of pragmatism and flexibility—rather than waiting for ideal conditions or perfect information, the focus should be on doing what is possible and then adjusting as needed. This mindset was particularly important during the Great Depression when the country was facing severe economic challenges, and Roosevelt’s New Deal initiatives were responses to the urgency of the moment.
Roosevelt’s words also reflect his confidence in the idea that progress comes from continuous effort and adaptation. If an initial plan doesn’t work as intended, it is not a failure, but an opportunity to learn and modify the approach. This willingness to adjust course as circumstances evolve is a hallmark of effective leadership and problem-solving, especially in the face of crises. Roosevelt’s leadership during both the Depression and World War II demonstrated his ability to remain flexible and adapt strategies as conditions changed.
In today’s context, this quote is a reminder that action is often the most important step, even when the perfect solution is not immediately apparent. Whether in business, governance, or personal challenges, the willingness to take initiative, learn from mistakes, and adjust over time is a key aspect of success. Roosevelt’s words inspire proactive leadership and emphasize the importance of resilience in adapting to changing circumstances, rather than waiting for ideal solutions.
