Edmund Hillary: 'Once I've decided to do something, I do usually try to carry it through to fruition.'

Once I've decided to do something, I do usually try to carry it through to fruition.

Edmund Hillary, the famed mountaineer and explorer, once said, "Once I've decided to do something, I do usually try to carry it through to fruition." This quote encapsulates a mindset of determination, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to achieving one's goals. It highlights the importance of resolute action and the resolve to see things through to completion. On a plain level, Hillary's words speak to the tenacity required to accomplish what we set out to do. However, let us delve deeper and explore an unexpected philosophical concept that amplifies the significance of this quote - existentialism.Existentialism, as a philosophical school of thought, emphasizes individual freedom, responsibility, and the importance of personal choice. Its proponents argue that life has no predetermined purpose or inherent meaning. Instead, we must give life meaning through our actions and decisions. In light of this, Edmund Hillary's quote takes on a new dimension. It aligns with the existentialist belief that we must be active participants in shaping our existence, consciously deciding what we want to pursue and then following through.When Hillary states his commitment to carrying things through to fruition, he exemplifies the existentialist ideal of embracing personal responsibility. In a world devoid of external purpose, existentialism calls on individuals to take charge of their lives and define their own meaning. By committing to his chosen endeavors until completion, Hillary shows a deep understanding of the significance of his actions and the impact they have on shaping his existence. He refuses to leave anything to chance, choosing instead to take control and forge his path.Moreover, Hillary's quote also highlights the interconnectedness of determination and personal growth. By making the conscious decision to pursue something and seeing it through, we challenge ourselves, expand our boundaries, and grow as individuals. Each successful endeavor becomes a stepping stone towards further self-discovery and transformation. In this sense, the pursuit of our goals, guided by the resolute attitude Hillary speaks of, becomes not only a means to an end but also a journey of self-actualization.However, it is important to note that Hillary's quote, while inspiring, should not be taken as an endorsement of rigid fixation on one specific course of action. It is crucial to strike a balance between determination and adaptability. Sometimes, circumstances change, and the path we initially set out on must be modified or abandoned altogether. The beauty lies in understanding when to persist and when to pivot. The ability to respond to unforeseen challenges and adjust our plans is as essential as the initial commitment to see things through. Flexibility and open-mindedness are integral parts of the journey towards fruition.In conclusion, Edmund Hillary's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unwavering commitment and determination in achieving our goals. It resonates with the essence of existentialism, urging us to embrace personal responsibility and actively shape our existence. By embodying a mindset that places value on character, perseverance, and personal growth, we can navigate the intricacies of life's challenges and chart a path towards fulfillment. Ultimately, it is through our actions and the consistency with which we carry them through that we carve our own purpose and give meaning to our lives.