“Big jobs usually go to the men who prove their ability to outgrow small ones.”
- October 27, 1858 – January 6, 1919
- American
- Politician, military officer
- Served as the 26th President of the United States, promoted progressive reforms and environmental conservation policies, and supported the construction of the Panama Canal
Quote
“Big jobs usually go to the men who prove their ability to outgrow small ones.”
Explanation
In this quote, Roosevelt highlights the idea that growth and development are essential for achieving larger responsibilities and greater success. He suggests that individuals who excel at small tasks and demonstrate growth in their skills, knowledge, and leadership abilities are the ones who will eventually be trusted with bigger opportunities. The ability to outgrow smaller roles shows progress and readiness for more significant challenges. Roosevelt believed that success in life is often built on the ability to master the small things first, as these experiences provide the foundation for greater achievements.
Roosevelt himself exemplified this philosophy. He worked his way through a series of smaller political roles, each one helping him build the experience, skill, and reputation necessary to take on larger responsibilities, ultimately becoming President. His commitment to constant improvement and his focus on service in smaller positions demonstrated that growth is a process of consistently taking on challenges, learning from them, and steadily proving your readiness for bigger roles.
This quote remains relevant today, particularly in the context of career development. It serves as a reminder that in order to achieve greater success, one must first prove themselves by excelling at smaller tasks. Whether in business, leadership, or personal growth, taking on and mastering smaller challenges positions an individual for bigger responsibilities and more significant opportunities. Roosevelt’s words encourage a mindset of continuous improvement, where each accomplishment, no matter how small, builds the foundation for future success.
