You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, ‘I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.’

Meaning

The essence of this quote lies in its reflection on courage. It points to the idea that bravery means acting despite fear and invites us to consider how we continue even when unsure.

Theme

Across cultures, courage remains a recurring subject. Many reflect on it since life often demands difficult choices. This quote fits that tradition, highlighting that persistence strengthens resolve.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Eleanor Roosevelt. This one stands out due to its focus on courage.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What is the message?
bravery means acting despite fear.

Why is it shared?
It captures a universal truth about courage.

What can we learn?
we continue even when unsure is an important part of daily life.