“What this power is I cannot say; all I know is that it exists and it becomes available only when a man is in that state of mind in which he knows exactly what he wants and is fully determined not to quit until he finds it.”
- March 3, 1847 – August 2, 1922
- Born in Scotland
- Inventor, scientist, engineer, educator
- Invented the telephone, revolutionized communications technology, and founded Bell Labs
Quote
“What this power is I cannot say; all I know is that it exists and it becomes available only when a man is in that state of mind in which he knows exactly what he wants and is fully determined not to quit until he finds it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Alexander Graham Bell speaks to the transformative power of determination and clarity of purpose. He acknowledges that this power is not easily defined, but he believes it becomes accessible when a person has a clear vision of what they want to achieve and is resolute in their pursuit. Bell suggests that mental focus, combined with an unwavering commitment to success, unlocks a form of power that drives individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. This “power” is the inner strength that helps people push through adversity and stay on course, no matter how difficult the journey.
Historically, this quote reflects Bell’s own experiences as an inventor and innovator. Throughout his career, Bell encountered numerous challenges, particularly with his work on the telephone. He faced skepticism, competition, and technical setbacks, but his single-minded determination allowed him to continue refining his work until he achieved success. His relentless pursuit of his goals demonstrates the power of focus and perseverance, qualities that were essential to his groundbreaking achievements.
In modern times, Bell’s quote resonates with the principles of goal-setting and resilience that are essential to success in any field. Whether in business, personal growth, or scientific research, having a clear vision and a strong determination to persist is crucial. Today, this “power” can be seen in the stories of entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders who achieve success through unwavering commitment and laser-focused effort. Bell’s insight serves as a reminder that, in the face of adversity, clarity of purpose and tenacity are often the keys to unlocking transformative change.
