Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums General Discussion Quotations that resonate with gifted people

"You must train your intuition�you must trust the small voice inside you which tells you exactly what to say, what to decide."
-INGRID BERGMAN

https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/125437.Ingrid_Bergman

"What I want is:
a day when I am not worried about the future,
or thinking about the past."

- Autumn Reeser as Elizabeth,
Hallmark movie "Always Amore"

"It takes considerable knowledge
just to realize the extent of your own ignorance."

- Thomas Sowell
https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/thomas_sowell_371253

Somewhat related, as it illustrates one's personal knowledge base as compared with humanity's overall knowledge base:
http://giftedissues.davidsongifted....ight_s_The_illustrated_g.html#Post250406

"Real courage is when you know you�re licked before you begin,
but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what."

- Harper Lee (author, To Kill a Mockingbird)

https://graciousquotes.com/harper-lee/

There are various versions of the above quote, which was originally posted to this forum thread on 10-13-2016.
Variations of the quote are attributed to several different people, which seems to indicate that it is a powerful observation, and well worth repeating. https://quoteinvestigator.com/2021/02/06/thief-of-joy/
The article contains several more versions, along with dates ranging from 1855 - 2013.
There is even a list of references for this well-researched article.
It is a quick read, and a feast of wisdom.

Related:
This post includes a book summary which suggests:
"we should compare ourselves to ourselves and appreciate the progress we have made."

Many gifted individuals have a fondness for words, ranging from an appreciation for puns, to etymology, to developing a large and varied vocabulary (although not a large part of the SAT for the past decade or so).

There are several word-of-the-day resources, one of which recently featured the word "apothegm" a term which may apply to a few of the quotations in this thread.

"Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty.
Anyone who keeps learning stays young.
The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young."
- Henry Ford

This quote and more, found online at: https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/henry-ford-quotes

"It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer."
- Albert Einstein

https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/albert_einstein_106192

When conducting a web search for this quote, an AI-generated answer popped up:

Staying with Problems Longer
Albert Einstein’s quote, “It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer,” highlights the importance of persistence and dedication in solving complex issues. According to Einstein, intelligence is not solely a matter of innate ability, but rather a result of one’s willingness to engage with problems and think critically over an extended period.

Key Takeaways

Persistence is key:
Einstein emphasizes the value of staying with problems longer, implying that the ability to persist in the face of challenges is a crucial aspect of intelligence.

Intelligence is not solely innate:
Einstein’s quote suggests that intelligence is not solely a product of natural ability, but rather a result of one’s effort and dedication to understanding complex issues.

Critical thinking is essential:
By staying with problems longer, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of the issue, leading to more effective problem-solving and critical thinking.

Implications
Developing problem-solving skills:
Einstein’s quote encourages individuals to focus on developing their problem-solving skills through persistence and dedication, rather than relying solely on innate ability.

Emphasizing effort over talent:
This quote highlights the importance of effort and persistence in achieving success, rather than solely relying on natural talent.

Applying to various domains:

The principles outlined in Einstein’s quote can be applied to various domains, including science, mathematics, art, and other fields where complex problems require critical thinking and persistence.

Inspirational Quote
Einstein’s quote serves as a reminder that intelligence is not solely a fixed trait, but rather a dynamic process that can be developed through dedication and persistence. It inspires individuals to stay committed to their goals, even in the face of challenges, and to cultivate a growth mindset that values effort and critical thinking.

AI-generated answer.

"Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength."
- Arnold Schwarzenegger
https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/arnold-schwarzenegger-quotes

AI Overview
The quote, "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts," originates from Marcus Aurelius's Meditations. It encapsulates a central tenet of Stoic philosophy, emphasizing that our internal world, particularly our thoughts, significantly shapes our experience of happiness and well-being. This quote suggests that by cultivating positive, rational, and virtuous thoughts, individuals can influence their own happiness, regardless of external circumstances.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Stoic Philosophy:
Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, wrote Meditations as a personal journal, reflecting on his own life and the principles of Stoicism. Stoicism teaches that virtue, reason, and living in accordance with nature are the keys to happiness and that external events have no inherent power to make us happy or unhappy. Our reactions to those events, shaped by our thoughts, are what truly matter.

The Power of Thought:
The quote highlights the idea that our thoughts are not passive observers of reality, but active shapers of our experience. Negative, pessimistic, or irrational thoughts can lead to suffering, while positive, rational, and virtuous thoughts can lead to a more fulfilling and happy life.

Control Over Internal World:
One of the core principles of Stoicism is that we have complete control over our internal world, our thoughts and judgments. External events are largely outside of our control, but we can choose how we respond to them. This quote emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our thoughts and cultivating a healthy mental landscape.

Practical Application:
This quote serves as a guide for daily life. It encourages individuals to be mindful of their thoughts, to challenge negative thought patterns, and to cultivate positive and virtuous thinking habits. By focusing on the quality of our thoughts, we can improve our overall well-being and experience greater happiness.