We learn wisdom from failure much more than from success. We often discover what will do, by finding out what will not do; and probably he who never made a mistake never made a discovery.

The quote "We learn wisdom from failure much more than from success. We often discover what will do, by finding out what will not do; and probably he who never made a mistake never made a discovery." by Samuel Smiles highlights the importance of failure as a key source of learning and wisdom. Smiles suggests that mistakes and setbacks are not only inevitable but also valuable because they provide the necessary insights to help us succeed. Unlike success, which often feels satisfying but may not always teach us anything new, failure gives us the chance to reassess and improve, leading to discovery and growth.

Originating from Samuel Smiles, a Scottish author and social reformer, the quote reflects his belief in the power of perseverance and self-improvement. Smiles was known for his work on the value of individual effort and character development, particularly in his book Self-Help. In this quote, he suggests that failure should be embraced as an essential part of the learning process, as it teaches us important lessons that success alone cannot provide.

The idea that we "discover what will do, by finding out what will not do" emphasizes that we often make progress by trial and error. Mistakes are part of the process of figuring out what works and what doesn’t. Smiles argues that failure is a natural teacher that shows us the boundaries of what we can achieve, providing clarity and focus for future endeavors.

Ultimately, Smiles’ quote serves as a reminder that failure is not something to fear but an integral part of growth and discovery. It teaches that making mistakes is a necessary step in learning, and those who are unwilling to fail may never uncover new truths or reach their full potential. This perspective encourages a more resilient and optimistic approach to challenges, knowing that each setback brings valuable insight and brings us closer to success.