This quote essentially captures the essence of genius as per Nietzsche’s perspective. Genius, in this context, is not just about having extraordinary intellectual or creative power. It is about setting high goals and having the determination, the will, and the strategy to achieve them. A genius is someone who is not just a dreamer, but a doer. They don’t just aim high, they also devise and commit to the means necessary to reach those heights.

The first part of the quote, “To aspire to a lofty aim,” is about ambition. It’s about setting goals that are challenging, that push boundaries and go beyond the ordinary. This is not about settling for mediocrity, but about striving for excellence, for the extraordinary.

The second part of the quote, “and to will the means to that aim,” is about determination and strategy. It’s not enough to just have a lofty aim; one must also have the will, the determination, and the plan to achieve it. This is about being proactive, about taking charge and making things happen.

Applying this idea in today’s world, we can see that those who are often labeled as ‘geniuses’ are not just those with exceptional intelligence or creativity. They are also those who have the ambition to set high goals and the determination to achieve them. For instance, successful entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders often exhibit these traits. They don’t just dream big, they also work hard and strategically to turn their dreams into reality.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder that achieving greatness requires both ambition and action. It’s not enough to just dream big; we also need to be willing to put in the effort and devise a plan to make our dreams come true. This might involve learning new skills, overcoming challenges, making sacrifices, and persisting in the face of adversity. But as Nietzsche suggests, this is what it takes to be a ‘genius’.