“Where the willingness is great, the difficulties cannot be great.”
- May 3, 1469 – June 21, 1527
- Born in the Republic of Florence (Italy)
- Political thinker and diplomat
- Wrote The Prince, built the foundations of modern political science, and advocated realist political thought
Quote
“Where the willingness is great, the difficulties cannot be great.”
Explanation
In this quote, Niccolò Machiavelli emphasizes the power of determination and resolve in overcoming challenges. He suggests that when a person or a group is truly committed to a goal, the difficulties they face will seem smaller or more manageable. The willingness to persist, adapt, and overcome obstacles plays a crucial role in whether a task is considered difficult or not. For Machiavelli, this willingness is not just about enthusiasm but also the strength of character and the focus necessary to keep moving forward in the face of adversity.
Machiavelli’s worldview was shaped by the political and military challenges of his time. The Italian city-states were constantly in conflict, and political leaders had to demonstrate resilience and perseverance if they wanted to survive. His idea that willingness can overcome difficulty reflects his belief in the power of a strong leader to rally support and make even daunting tasks achievable. For instance, a leader who has the resolve to act swiftly and decisively, even in the face of overwhelming opposition, can often turn the tide in their favor. Historical figures such as Julius Caesar or Napoleon Bonaparte, who faced seemingly insurmountable odds, succeeded in large part because of their unyielding commitment to their causes.
In modern times, this idea applies to both personal and collective challenges. Whether it is entrepreneurship, social activism, or political leadership, those who are committed to their vision are often able to overcome obstacles that might seem insurmountable to others. For example, in business ventures, entrepreneurs who are deeply willing to sacrifice and push through early struggles—despite financial hardships or market competition—can eventually succeed, as seen in the stories of companies like Apple or Tesla. Similarly, in the realm of social movements, leaders and activists with a strong will to bring about change—such as Nelson Mandela or Malala Yousafzai—demonstrate that determination in the face of adversity can lead to significant social transformation. Machiavelli’s quote serves as a reminder that the greatest difficulties can often be overcome with the right mindset and a deep commitment to one’s objectives.
