All that is necessary to break the spell of inertia and frustration is this: Act as if it were impossible to fail. That is the talisman, the formula, the command of right about face which turns us from failure to success.

In this quote, Dorothea Brande suggests that the key to overcoming inertia and frustration is to adopt the mindset that failure is not an option. She encourages us to "act as if it were impossible to fail," which implies taking bold, confident steps without being weighed down by fear or doubt. By shifting our mindset and believing in our ability to succeed, we break free from the paralysis caused by fear and self-doubt, allowing us to move forward with clarity and determination.

Brande refers to this mindset as a talisman—a magical object that provides protection or power. In this context, the talisman is the belief that failure is impossible, which serves as a powerful tool to push through barriers. This perspective turns failure into a non-factor, and by acting with the conviction that success is inevitable, we begin to alter our approach to challenges and opportunities.

The phrase "the command of right about face" signifies a dramatic shift in direction. It suggests that by adopting this mindset, we can reverse the course of our actions, moving from a state of failure or stagnation to one of success and forward momentum. Brande is essentially offering a formula for transforming frustration into action—a call to believe in one’s own abilities and take steps as if success is already assured.

Ultimately, Brande’s quote serves as a reminder of the power of positive thinking and how our beliefs shape our actions. By choosing to act with the certainty that we cannot fail, we change our approach to challenges, replacing hesitation with boldness and frustration with productive movement. It’s a call to adopt a mindset that empowers us to break free from doubt and move decisively toward our goals.