“There is no comparison between that which is lost by not succeeding and that which is lost by not trying.”
- January 22, 1561 – April 9, 1626
- Born in England
- Philosopher, theologian, jurist, politician, aristocrat
- Proposed the “inductive method” that laid the foundations of modern science, and influenced later generations as the founder of British empiricism
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Quote
“There is no comparison between that which is lost by not succeeding and that which is lost by not trying.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon emphasizes the greater loss that comes from not making an effort, rather than from failing after trying. Bacon suggests that the regret and opportunity lost by not trying are far more significant than the disappointment of failure. When a person chooses not to attempt something, they miss out on the potential for growth, learning, and the opportunity to succeed, no matter how slim the chances of success might be. In contrast, failing after trying means that at least one has gained experience and understanding, and can attempt to try again, learning from mistakes along the way. Bacon implies that inaction leads to a permanent loss of potential, while failure carries with it the possibility of eventual success.
Bacon’s perspective reflects a key theme in the Renaissance, a period that saw an explosion of exploration, invention, and innovation. The age valued the courage to experiment and discover, and Bacon, a philosopher and scientist, likely saw action and attempts at progress as vital components of human development. His belief that trying is inherently valuable mirrors Renaissance ideas that prioritized initiative and creativity as means to push the boundaries of human knowledge and achievement.
In modern times, this quote resonates deeply with contemporary discussions about personal development and entrepreneurship. Today, the idea of failing forward—learning from mistakes and using failure as a stepping stone to success—is a common principle in both business and personal growth. Psychology and self-help literature emphasize that the fear of failure should not prevent people from trying, as the most profound losses come from inaction. Bacon’s insight serves as a powerful reminder that the fear of failure should not stop us from taking chances, as the opportunity to grow and learn through experience outweighs the cost of never attempting at all.
