Discover the meaning of Charles Dickens’ quote, “The moment when you want to quit is the moment to keep pushing,” with insights on motivation and perseverance.
Quote of the Day by Charles Dickens
“The moment when you want to quit is the moment when you need to keep pushing.”
Some lines stay with us forever because they reflect the truth of human struggle. This powerful quote, often attributed to Charles Dickens, captures a universal experience—the point where exhaustion meets determination. Whether you are a student, creator, entrepreneur, or professional, you’ve likely faced a moment when giving up felt easier than holding on.
This quote reminds us that the turning point of success usually appears right after the urge to quit. The greatest progress is often made after the hardest challenge.
Meaning of the Quote
1. The “moment you want to quit”
This refers to times when:
- You feel tired and overwhelmed
- Your efforts don’t seem to show results
- Obstacles appear bigger than your abilities
- Failure feels more likely than success
It’s a natural psychological phase that happens to everyone. It is the mind’s way of avoiding discomfort and effort.
2. “You need to keep pushing”
This part of the quote carries the message of resilience and inner strength.
It means:
- Continue even if progress is slow
- Push through fear, doubt, and frustration
- Understand that challenges often precede breakthroughs
- Trust the process and your efforts
Success usually demands one more step, one more trial, or one more day of commitment.
Why This Quote Matters
1. Breakthroughs Come After Struggle
Many successful people experienced their biggest growth after refusing to give up.
Often, obstacles intensify right before improvement happens.
2. Quitting Ends Your Possibilities
Once you stop trying, the chance of success becomes zero. Continuing to push keeps the door open.
3. Persistence Builds Strength
Every time you overcome a difficult moment, you grow mentally stronger. That strength helps you face future challenges with more confidence.
4. Motivation Is Temporary — Discipline is Stronger
You cannot depend on motivation every day. This quote teaches the value of discipline and consistency even during low-energy moments.
Life Lessons Hidden in the Quote
1. Success Is Not Instant
Every meaningful achievement—writing a book, building a business, mastering a skill—takes time. Patience is part of the journey.
2. Difficulty Doesn’t Mean Failure
A hard phase does NOT mean something is wrong. It simply means you are moving beyond your comfort zone.
3. Small Steps Matter
Even if you can’t take big leaps, pushing forward with small actions helps you maintain momentum.
4. Challenges Shape Character
Struggles build:
- Confidence
- Wisdom
- Emotional strength
- Determination
These qualities stay with you long after the challenge is over.
How to Apply This Quote in Daily Life
1. When Studying or Learning
Feeling stuck with a subject?
Push a little more. That extra effort may finally make everything click.
2. When Working on a Big Project
If progress seems slow, break tasks into small steps and continue steadily.
3. When Building a Skill
Musicians, writers, coders, designers—all hit a plateau. The key is not to stop but to practice consistently.
4. When Starting a Business
Every entrepreneur faces doubts. Growth demands patience and persistence.
5. When Trying to Change Habits
Healthy habits take time. Keeping on track even after failures leads to real transformation.
Why This Quote Inspires Millions
- It acknowledges that struggle is part of success, not a sign of defeat.
- It encourages people to trust their journey, not their temporary emotions.
- It gives hope during moments of frustration.
Most importantly, it reminds us that you are often closer to success than you think.
Conclusion
Charles Dickens’ quote delivers a timeless message: your hardest moment is not the end of your journey—it is the beginning of your breakthrough. When you feel like quitting, remember that persistence can turn setbacks into success.
With every push, you grow stronger.
With every step, you move forward.
And in the end, that extra effort becomes the reason you achieve what once seemed impossible.