Bette Davis: 'This has always been a motto of mine: Attempt the impossible in order to improve your work.'

This has always been a motto of mine: Attempt the impossible in order to improve your work.

The quote by Bette Davis, "This has always been a motto of mine: Attempt the impossible in order to improve your work," encapsulates the essence of ambition and determination required for personal and professional growth. It urges individuals to challenge their own limits and push the boundaries of what they believe is possible. By attempting the impossible, one embarks on a journey of continuous improvement and honing of skills.To delve deeper into the meaning of this quote, it is essential to evaluate the relationship between the concept of impossibility and the pursuit of excellence. The word "impossible" often carries a negative connotation, implying an insurmountable obstacle or an unattainable goal. However, when approached from a different perspective, the impossible can be seen as an invitation to explore uncharted territories and discover untapped potential.In essence, Davis's motto serves as a reminder that true growth and improvement are not achieved by simply accepting the status quo or settling for mediocrity. It urges individuals to seek out challenges that seem beyond their grasp and embrace the discomfort that accompanies them. By doing so, individuals can break free from the confines of their comfort zones and embark on a journey of self-discovery and development.Introducing a philosophical concept, let us consider the idea of existentialism. Existentialism, as a philosophical school of thought, emphasizes individual freedom, authenticity, and the inherent meaninglessness of life. In the context of Davis's quote, existentialism sheds light on the inherent contradictions between the idea of attempting the impossible to improve one's work and the existential nihilism that posits life has no inherent meaning.However, instead of viewing these two concepts as incompatible, we can see them as mutually reinforcing. Existentialism calls for individuals to create their own meaning and purpose in life, despite the apparent inherent meaninglessness. In this context, attempting the impossible can be seen as an act of self-creation and rebellion against existential nihilism. By striving to improve one's work through audacious pursuits, individuals defy the notion that life is devoid of meaning and demonstrate their agency in shaping their own destinies.Moreover, the act of attempting the impossible is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the human spirit. It is through these audacious endeavors that we discover new capabilities and expand the horizons of our potential. Each step taken towards the seemingly impossible contributes to personal growth, skill development, and the acquisition of invaluable experiences that enrich our lives.However, it is important to acknowledge that attempting the impossible does not guarantee immediate success. In fact, failure may be an inevitable part of the journey. Yet, it is in failure that true growth occurs. Each setback presents an opportunity to learn from mistakes, reassess approaches, and refine strategies. Therefore, by embracing the impossibility of a task, individuals open themselves up to iterative processes of improvement that ultimately enhance their work.In conclusion, Bette Davis's motto to "attempt the impossible in order to improve your work" encapsulates the profound wisdom necessary for personal and professional growth. It invites individuals to rise above self-imposed limitations, challenge the boundaries of their abilities, and create their own meaning and purpose in life. Moreover, when considered within the realm of existentialism, attempting the impossible becomes an act of rebellion against the notion of existential nihilism. By pushing our limits and embracing audacious pursuits, we not only improve our work but also contribute to our own self-creation and the perpetual unfolding of our human potential. So, let us embark on a journey of impossibility, for it is within the realm of the impossible that greatness awaits.