Young man, the secret of my success is that an early age I discovered that I was not God

Young man, the secret of my success is that an early age I discovered that I was not God

Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., a renowned American jurist and Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, once famously said, “Young man, the secret of my success is that at an early age I discovered that I was not God.” These words hold profound wisdom and insight into the mindset of a successful individual who understands the limitations of their own abilities.

Holmes' statement emphasizes the importance of humility and self-awareness in achieving success. By acknowledging that he was not infallible or all-powerful, Holmes was able to approach his work with a sense of humility and openness to learning from others. This mindset allowed him to grow and develop as a jurist, constantly seeking to improve his understanding of the law and the complexities of the legal system.

In the context of Holmes' career as a Supreme Court Justice, his recognition of his own limitations was crucial to his success. As a judge, Holmes was tasked with interpreting and applying the law in a fair and impartial manner. By recognizing that he was not God, Holmes understood that his decisions were fallible and subject to scrutiny. This humility allowed him to approach each case with an open mind, considering all perspectives and arguments before reaching a decision.

Furthermore, Holmes' words serve as a reminder that no individual is infallible or all-knowing. By acknowledging our own limitations, we can cultivate a sense of humility and empathy towards others. This mindset fosters collaboration and cooperation, as we recognize that we can learn from those around us and benefit from their perspectives and experiences.