“Because your own strength is unequal to the task, do not assume that it is beyond the powers of man; but if anything is within the powers and province of man, believe that it is within your own compass also.”
- April 26, 121 – March 17, 180
- Roman Empire
- Roman Emperor
- Influenced by Stoic philosophy, he wrote “Meditations” and practiced ideal governance as a philosophical leader, and was later praised as one of the Five Good Emperors.
Quote
“Because your own strength is unequal to the task, do not assume that it is beyond the powers of man; but if anything is within the powers and province of man, believe that it is within your own compass also.”
Explanation
In this quote, Marcus Aurelius challenges the idea of limiting ourselves based on perceived weakness or inability. He suggests that just because we might feel inadequate or insufficient in the face of a challenge, it doesn’t mean that the task is beyond the capabilities of humans in general. If something is within the capacity of humankind, then it is also within the potential of the individual to accomplish. This perspective encourages self-belief, resilience, and the willingness to take on difficult tasks without assuming that our limitations define what is possible for us.
Aurelius, as both a philosopher and a leader, would have recognized that challenges—whether personal or professional—are inevitable, and that it is essential to trust in our ability to adapt and grow. He often spoke about the power of reason and virtue in overcoming obstacles, reminding us that self-doubt should not limit our capacity for action. In modern life, this principle is incredibly relevant, as it encourages perseverance and a shift in mindset: instead of thinking something is impossible simply because we find it difficult, we should focus on what is achievable through effort and personal growth.
In practical terms, this quote encourages us to push beyond self-imposed limits and approach challenges with the mindset that growth is possible, even in difficult situations. For instance, when facing a complex project or a personal challenge that feels too overwhelming, we can remind ourselves that human beings, through effort and determination, are capable of achieving great things. By believing that what is possible for others is also possible for us, we foster a sense of empowerment and resilience, motivating ourselves to tackle the task at hand with confidence and purpose.
