“What one has to do usually can be done.”
- October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962
- American
- First Lady of the United States, Diplomat, Human Rights Advocate, Chair of the UN Human Rights Commission
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Quote
“What one has to do usually can be done.”
Explanation
In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt expresses confidence in human resilience and capability, suggesting that when a task is truly necessary, people often find the strength and resourcefulness to accomplish it. The phrase “has to do” implies a sense of duty or unavoidable responsibility, while “usually can be done” conveys a realistic optimism—acknowledging difficulty but affirming possibility.
Roosevelt faced countless personal and political challenges, from overcoming shyness and criticism to navigating her role as First Lady during a time of global crisis. Her experience taught her that necessity often reveals hidden strength, and that when individuals are pushed by purpose or obligation, they rise to the occasion with surprising ability.
In modern life, this quote serves as a quiet motivator. Whether confronting hardship, pursuing goals, or fulfilling responsibilities, Roosevelt reminds us that perceived limitations often dissolve under the pressure of commitment. When we focus not on fear, but on necessity and resolve, we often discover that we are more capable than we first believe.
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