Chapter 36—Principles of Motivation
Success Demands Aim—Success in any line demands a definite
aim. He who would achieve true success in life must keep steadily in
view the aim worthy of his endeavor. Such an aim is set before the
youth of today.—
Education, 262
(1903).
Should Aim as High as Possible—The specific place appointed
us in life is determined by our capabilities. Not all reach the same
development or do with equal efficiency the same work. God does not
expect the hyssop to attain the proportions of the cedar, or the olive
the height of the stately palm. But each should aim just as high as
the union of human with divine power makes it possible for him to
reach.—
Education, 267
(1903).
Students to Have a Real Aim—Teach the students to use for the
highest, holiest purpose the talents God has given them that they may
accomplish the greatest good in this world. Students need to learn
what it means to have a real aim in life, and to obtain an exalted
understanding of what true education means.—
The Madison School,
November 14, 1905, 16.
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Christ Encourages Lofty Aims—He would give encouragement
to our loftiest aims, security to our choicest treasure.—
Christ’s Object
Lessons, 374
(1900).
Failing to Realize One’s Potential—Many do not become what
they might because they do not put forth the power that is in them.
They do not, as they might, lay hold on divine strength. Many are
diverted from the line in which they might reach the truest success.
Seeking greater honor or a more pleasing task, they attempt something
for which they are not fitted.
Many a man whose talents are adapted for some other calling is
ambitious to enter a profession; and he who might have been successful
as a farmer, an artisan, or a nurse fills inadequately the position of
a minister, a lawyer, or a physician. There are others, again, who
might have filled a responsible calling, but who, for want of energy,
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