Quote of the day by Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: “Failure will never overtake me if my definition to succeed is strong enough”

Quote of the day by Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: “Failure will never overtake me if my definition to succeed is strong enough”

• Dr. Kalam: Define success by your values, not others' opinions.
• Setting your own standards helps turn setbacks into lessons, not failures
• Celebrate small wins; view failure as feedback to boost determination.

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We live in a world where even a small defeat can feel like the end of the road. During such times, a few words from someone extraordinary can change how you perceive  things. India’s beloved Missile Man and former President, Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam once said; “Failure will never overtake me if my definition to succeed is strong enough.”

It’s simple, yet powerful, especially for anyone juggling career pressures, personal dreams, or just life’s unpredictable twists.

What does the quote mean?

Dr Kalam says that failure cannot control you unless you let it. If your idea of success comes from what others think, friends, social media, or society, you’ll feel crushed when things go wrong. But if success is your own, based on your values, effort, and personal goals, then mistakes become small bumps in the road, not permanent failures. Success becomes a guide, not a scoreboard.

Also read | Quote of the day by Swami Vivekananda: "All the powers in the universe are already ours. It is we who have put our hands before our eyes and cry that it is dark"

How is the quote relevant today

This is more important today than ever. With endless comparisons online and pressure to “keep up,” it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. But when you set your own standards, you protect your motivation and your confidence. You can learn from mistakes, adjust, and keep moving forward without losing heart. In short, setbacks become lessons instead of judgements.

Lessons from Dr Kalam’s quote

Dr Kalam lived this philosophy every day. Experiments failed, projects hit walls, and obstacles could have stopped anyone else. But he kept going because his idea of success, helping society, contributing to knowledge, and staying honest, was unshakeable. His life shows that real determination isn’t about avoiding failure, it’s about having a strong vision that helps you stand up, again and again.

Also read | Quote of the day by Bhagat Singh: “Any man who stands for progress has to criticise, disbelieve and challenge every item of the old faith”

Tips to strengthen your vision

On a paper, write down what success means to you personally. Be specific.

Celebrate small wins, they show you are on the right track

Treat failure as feedback, and not as a final verdict

Keep people around who support your goals, not just cheer results.

Revisit your definition of success as you grow it can change with you.