“Dream no small dreams for they have no power to move the hearts of men.”
- August 28, 1749 – March 22, 1832
- German
- Poet, playwright, novelist, philosopher, politician
- His literary works “Faust” and “The Sorrows of Young Werther” had a major impact on world literature.
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Quote
“Dream no small dreams for they have no power to move the hearts of men.”
Explanation
Goethe suggests that ambition and vision should be grand and inspiring, because small dreams lack the ability to truly inspire and motivate people. Big dreams, those that are bold and visionary, have the power to capture attention, engage hearts, and bring people together to work toward a common goal. They stir a sense of purpose and excitement that smaller, more mundane dreams cannot. The quote encourages thinking beyond the immediate or the easily achievable and aiming for something that can make a lasting impact and move others to act.
Historically, this idea reflects Goethe’s belief in the power of vision and inspiration in creating change. During the Romantic period, there was an emphasis on individual potential and the capacity to dream big, to pursue ideals and visions that could transform not just the individual, but the world. Goethe himself was a proponent of the idea that a strong vision or dream could motivate people to push past their limits and achieve greatness.
In modern contexts, this idea remains relevant in areas such as leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Big dreams and bold ideas continue to drive progress and change, whether it’s in technology, social movements, or artistic endeavors. Entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs or Elon Musk are often cited as examples of individuals who dared to dream beyond the status quo, motivating others to join their visions and change the world. In a broader sense, the quote also speaks to the power of aspirational goals in inspiring teams, communities, or even nations to come together and work toward a shared dream.
Goethe’s words remind us that great dreams have the power to inspire and move people in ways that small, limited visions cannot. To create meaningful change, we must dream big, embracing ambition and courage to pursue dreams that have the power to stir the hearts of those around us.
