The quote “Act strenuously, would appear to be our faith, and right thinking will take care of itself” suggests that the emphasis should be on taking action rather than getting caught up in overthinking or deliberation. The idea is that by engaging actively with the world and committing to purposeful efforts, one’s values and beliefs will naturally align or manifest through those actions.
At its core, this quote speaks to a form of pragmatism: instead of waiting for perfect clarity or insight before making a move, we should focus on doing what we believe is right. It implies that action can lead to deeper understanding and moral clarity. When we immerse ourselves in experiences—whether through hard work, advocacy, or simply trying new things—we often find insights about our values and priorities that inform our thinking more effectively than introspection alone.
In today’s context—especially given the rapid pace of change and complexity in modern life—this perspective becomes particularly relevant. Many people feel overwhelmed by options or paralyzed by uncertainty when it comes to decisions about careers, relationships, or personal goals. Instead of seeking absolute certainty before acting (which may never come), embracing a proactive mindset encourages people to step forward despite doubts.
Here are some ways this philosophy might apply in personal development today:
1. **Taking Initiative**: Instead of waiting for inspiration or motivation—which can be fleeting—commitment to consistent action creates momentum toward goals. For example, if someone wants to improve their fitness but feels unsure about the best approach, starting with regular exercise (even if it’s not perfectly planned) can lead them toward better habits over time.
2. **Learning Through Doing**: In professional settings where skills need refinement—or innovations must adapt quickly—the act of experimenting can yield insights much faster than theoretical analysis alone. Engaging actively allows individuals to learn from failures and successes alike.
3. **Building Resilience**: Strenuous action fosters resilience; facing challenges head-on cultivates problem-solving skills and emotional strength—from tackling difficult projects at work to confronting personal fears directly rather than avoiding them out of fear.
4. **Promoting Social Change**: In activism contexts, taking action—even small steps like organizing community events or advocating for causes—can shift perspectives within communities more effectively than passive support for ideas without engagement.
In summary, “acting strenuously” is an encouragement towards engagement as a pathway for growth—not just personally but socially as well; it reinforces the notion that through active participation in life’s endeavors comes clarity on what matters most—and thus shapes our thinking organically along the way.