Man is the only creature that strives to surpass himself, and yearns for the impossible.

What did Eric Hoffer mean by:

Man is the only creature that strives to surpass himself, and yearns for the impossible.

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This quote suggests that humans are unique in their constant pursuit of self-improvement and their aspiration for the seemingly unattainable. Unlike other creatures, which are primarily driven by basic survival instincts, humans possess an innate desire to exceed their current capabilities and reach for what appears to be beyond their grasp.

Each word in the quote carries a profound implication. “Striving” implies a continuous, relentless effort. It is not about achieving a one-time success, but a constant journey of growth and improvement. “Surpassing oneself” implies breaking one’s own records, pushing one’s own boundaries, and continually setting new benchmarks for oneself. And “yearning for the impossible” suggests a deep, burning desire to achieve what may initially seem out of reach.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see evidence of this human trait everywhere. In technology, for instance, we continually push the boundaries of what’s possible, inventing new gadgets, exploring space, and decoding the mysteries of life itself. In sports, athletes constantly strive to break their own records and those of others. In personal development, this quote might inspire us to always strive for self-improvement, to never settle for mediocrity, and to always reach for our dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.

Moreover, this quote can also serve as a reminder that we should not be deterred by the enormity of our dreams or the perceived impossibilities. Rather, we should embrace them as challenges that push us to grow, evolve, and ultimately surpass ourselves. The idea is not about achieving the impossible but about the journey of striving for it, the growth that comes with it, and the person we become in the process.

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