George Bernard Shaw: 'The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want and if they can't find them, make them.'

The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want and if they can't find them, make them.

Summary:George Bernard Shaw once said, "The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want and if they can't find them, make them." This quote beautifully captures the essence of a proactive mindset and underlines the significance of taking ownership of our lives. It emphasizes the notion that success is not bestowed upon us by chance, but rather earned through our determination, resourcefulness, and willingness to create opportunities even when they aren't readily available.Introduction:While Shaw's quote paints a vivid picture of individuals who actively seek out the circumstances they desire, it also touches upon a fascinating concept – that of philosophical pragmatism. Pragmatism advocates for the idea that truth should be determined by practical consequences rather than fixed principles or dogmas. By examining how Shaw's words align with this philosophical perspective, we can gain a deeper understanding of the quote's deeper layers of meaning.Exploring Philosophical Pragmatism:Pragmatism suggests that finding the circumstances we desire is not purely a matter of wishful thinking but rather a process of active engagement. In Shaw's quote, he implies that those who successfully navigate life do not passively wait for opportunities to knock at their door. Instead, they recognize the limitations of relying solely on chance and actively shape their lives by making the circumstances they desire.Pragmatic thinkers argue that it is not enough to merely hope and dream; action must accompany those aspirations. This aligns with Shaw's idea of "getting up" and looking for the circumstances we want. By taking proactive steps to seek out opportunities, we enhance our chances of success and growth.The Importance of Resourcefulness:Shaw's quote emphasizes the importance of resourcefulness in making one's own circumstances. When faced with a lack of readily available opportunities, resourceful individuals do not feel discouraged or helpless. Instead, they tap into their creativity, resilience, and determination to create the circumstances they desire.In the realm of philosophical pragmatism, this resourcefulness highlights the fundamental principle of adaptability. Pragmatists believe that in order to make progress and achieve our goals, we must be open to adapting our strategies and problem-solving approaches. By doing so, we can navigate the ever-changing landscape of circumstances and mold them to suit our aspirations.The Power of Determination:Shaw's inspiring words also underscore the importance of determination in creating the circumstances we desire. Rather than waiting for life to hand them opportunities on a silver platter, individuals who exemplify Shaw's mindset understand that success requires unwavering perseverance and a refusal to settle for less.Pragmatism aligns with this notion, as it advocates for a clear understanding that outcomes are not guaranteed solely based on our desires. Instead, it emphasizes that success is a result of continuous effort, resilience, and learning from both successes and failures along the way.Contrasting Pragmatism with Idealism:To fully appreciate Shaw's quote, it is also interesting to consider its implications in contrast with a philosophical counterpart – idealism. Idealism asserts that reality is shaped primarily by our thoughts, beliefs, and ideals. While it has its merits, idealism can sometimes foster a passive mindset, relying on the assumption that the universe will conspire to bring our desires into fruition.Shaw's quote challenges this passive idealism by advocating for a proactive approach to shaping our circumstances. It prompts us to view the world as it is and recognize our agency in molding it to match our aspirations. By taking initiative and actively seeking or creating opportunities, we transcend idealistic dreams and transform them into tangible realities.Conclusion:George Bernard Shaw's wise words remind us that success comes to those who actively seek and shape their circumstances. By embodying the proactive mindset he describes, we exemplify the principles of philosophical pragmatism – a philosophy that urges us to rely on practical consequences and take initiative rather than passively waiting for life to unfold. Shaw's quote inspires us to be resourceful, determined, and adaptable in our pursuit of the circumstances we desire. So, let us rise, embrace personal agency, and create the circumstances that enable us to thrive.