When I was young, I observed that nine out of ten things I did were failures. So I did ten times more work

When I was young, I observed that nine out of ten things I did were failures. So I did ten times more work

George Bernard Shaw, the renowned Irish playwright, once said, “When I was young, I observed that nine out of ten things I did were failures. So I did ten times more work.” This quote encapsulates Shaw’s relentless work ethic and determination to succeed despite facing numerous setbacks in his early life.

Shaw was born in Dublin in 1856 and grew up in a lower-middle-class family. He had a difficult childhood, marked by financial struggles and a lack of formal education. Despite these challenges, Shaw was determined to make a name for himself in the world of literature and theater. He began his career as a music critic and journalist, but it was his plays that would ultimately bring him fame and recognition.

Shaw’s early works were met with mixed reviews and limited success. However, instead of being discouraged by these failures, Shaw used them as motivation to work even harder. He believed that success was not a matter of luck or talent, but rather of perseverance and hard work. Shaw was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his dedication to his craft. He would spend hours perfecting his scripts, rewriting scenes and dialogue until they met his exacting standards.

Shaw’s perseverance eventually paid off, and he went on to become one of the most celebrated playwrights of his time. His plays, such as “Pygmalion” and “Saint Joan,” are still performed and studied today for their wit, social commentary, and timeless themes. Shaw’s success was a testament to his belief that failure was not the end, but rather a stepping stone to greater achievements.