Have you heard the famous quote of Abraham Lincoln – “If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first four hours sharpening the axe.” The famous US President uttered these words to uncover a powerful learning associated with human life. The quote pinpoints the necessity for a person to explore the best version of himself by acquiring adequate time before he proceeds to address a task. Because then only coveted success is achievable.
The message is crystal clear. Take your time. Never hesitate to apply your intelligence. And try to detect the best route to success. Once identified, choose it and follow that path. However, only a few persons prepare to implement this most effective way of successful attainment.
We most often take the initiative in a hurry. And the result usually emerges as incomplete. Moreover, not beneficial. The reason is that we often make mistakes in choosing and prioritizing the right step. Yet, we always assume that because we are doing something that is why we are entitled to attain a productive outcome.
But, it always appears unfruitful. Instead of making a hurry, we should try to identify the proper route of action. The reason is it would save from wasting time. At the same time, it encourages concentrating the way of following the right course of action.
In short, it is much better to spend time fine-tuning an instrument that could lead to finishing the vital task more efficiently. Abraham Lincoln’s quote, “I’d spend the first four hours sharpening the axe,” signifies this truth. Yes, mere hacking away blindly with blunt initiative results in nothing. Instead, it would be best if you strived to explore the best version of yourself to obtain the finest outcome.
Likewise, chopping down or cutting a tree with a mere blunt axe must be arduous, even futile. On the other hand, a sharp axe makes the task easier, more accessible, and more fruitful. Initially, making an axe attuned to its highest capability may look unnecessary and time-consuming. Why? Because an already sharp-edged tool could chop down a tree at any rate. However, in reality, the absence of refining or improvement will ensure the need for more time and effort in the long run.
You need to understand one unavoidable truth. Doing something doesn’t mean, all the time, something meaningful. Yes, because you are trying doesn’t mean your attempt is productive. Even in no way it means your method of execution is correct.
You should explore the best version hiding in your efficiency to obtain the desired outcome. Just give time adequately to let that perfection come out with the most refined efficiency. And once it successfully appears, you become ensured that success is yours.
