No experience is a cause of success or failure. We do not suffer from the shock of our experiences, so-called trauma - but we make out of them just what suits our purposes.

The quote by Alfred Adler challenges the common belief that experience—especially traumatic or difficult experiences—is the direct cause of success or failure. Adler suggests that it is not the experiences themselves that shape our outcomes, but rather how we interpret and make use of them. This highlights the role of personal perception and attitude in determining how experiences affect us.

Adler emphasizes that people do not simply suffer from their traumas or hardships passively; instead, they actively construct meaning from these events that fits their own purposes or goals. This idea reflects his broader psychological philosophy that individuals have the power to shape their lives through their choices and mindset, rather than being controlled by external circumstances.

The origin of the quote lies in Alfred Adler’s work as a pioneering psychologist and founder of individual psychology. Adler focused on understanding how people develop a sense of self and purpose, often emphasizing the importance of goal orientation and the creative power of the individual mind. His insights encourage a proactive approach to life’s challenges.

In summary, the quote underlines that success or failure is not predetermined by what happens to us, but by how we choose to respond and find meaning in our experiences. It advocates for personal responsibility and resilience in shaping our own destinies.