This quote implies that intellect alone is not enough to achieve success; it must be paired with energy or action. Intelligence or knowledge, no matter how vast, if not put into action, remains ineffective. It’s like having a powerful engine in a car that never moves. The engine (intellect) may be impressive, but without fuel (energy) to power it, the car (individual) remains stationary and unproductive.

Energy here could be interpreted in many ways. It could mean motivation, effort, ambition, or even passion. It’s the driving force that propels the intellect to create, innovate, and accomplish. Without it, the intellect remains idle, and its potential is wasted.

Applying this to the modern world, we often see people with great ideas, but without the energy to implement them, these ideas remain just that – ideas. In the business world, for example, there are many intelligent individuals, but those who stand out and succeed are those who also display energy and take action.

In terms of personal development, this quote suggests that we should not only focus on gaining knowledge but also on cultivating the energy to use this knowledge effectively. It’s about finding balance between learning and doing. It’s not enough to just read about how to play a musical instrument, one must also practice; it’s not enough to understand the theory behind a successful business, one must also start and manage a business.

So, while intellect is valuable, it must be complemented with energy to avoid failure and achieve success. This could mean developing a strong work ethic, nurturing your motivation, or simply taking action on your ideas.