Edmund Hillary: 'People do not decide to become extraordinary. They decide to accomplish extraordinary things.'

People do not decide to become extraordinary. They decide to accomplish extraordinary things.

The quote by Edmund Hillary, "People do not decide to become extraordinary. They decide to accomplish extraordinary things," encompasses the essence of determination and the pursuit of greatness. A straightforward interpretation of this quote suggests that true greatness does not come from merely aspiring to be extraordinary, but from taking action and striving to achieve extraordinary feats.At first glance, this quote may seem like a simple motivational statement encouraging individuals to set ambitious goals and work hard towards them. However, delving deeper into its meaning reveals a profound philosophical concept. It suggests that "extraordinary" is not a static state of being that one can choose to attain. Rather, it is the result of deliberate choices and actions taken to accomplish remarkable endeavors.This concept challenges the commonly held belief that extraordinary individuals are born with innate abilities or unique circumstances that set them apart from the rest. Instead, it implies that anyone can achieve greatness by choosing to pursue extraordinary goals and dedicating themselves to the tasks necessary to accomplish them.The idea behind Hillary's quote aligns with the concept known as existentialism in philosophy. Existentialism explores the idea that individuals define their own essence through their actions and choices, rather than being predetermined or defined by external factors. It emphasizes personal responsibility, freedom, and the creation of meaning in one's life.In the context of the quote, the existentialist perspective brings an unexpected layer of depth. It suggests that one's path to greatness is not dependent on external factors such as genetics or luck, but rather on the choices they make and the actions they take. This notion empowers individuals to take ownership of their lives and strive for extraordinary accomplishments, regardless of their starting point.Moreover, the quote invites us to question the conventional understanding of what it means to be extraordinary. Instead of worshiping achievements as the sole measurement of greatness, it encourages a more nuanced perspective. Extraordinary accomplishments can be found not only in grand, larger-than-life endeavors but also in the smaller, everyday actions that contribute to personal growth and the betterment of society.Drawing a contrast, it is important to note that this quote does not dismiss the significance of ambition or the desire for excellence. Rather, it redirects our focus towards the process of accomplishing extraordinary things rather than solely fixating on the end result. By emphasizing the importance of determination, perseverance, and the willingness to take risks, Hillary encourages individuals to embrace the journey towards greatness, knowing that the rewards lie not only in the destination but also in the path taken to get there.In conclusion, Edmund Hillary's quote serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness is not a matter of birthright or luck, but rather a result of conscientious decision-making and intentional action. By choosing to pursue extraordinary goals and dedicating themselves to the tasks at hand, individuals have the power to transcend their ordinary selves and achieve extraordinary things. This mindset aligns with the principles of existentialism, emphasizing personal responsibility and the creation of meaning through action. By shifting our focus from the idea of being extraordinary to the pursuit of extraordinary accomplishments, we can unlock immense potential within ourselves and inspire others to do the same.