"物事は起こるのではない。物事は起こされるのだ。"

The main idea here is pretty straightforward: events and outcomes don’t just occur by accident; they require deliberate effort and action. This quote emphasizes the importance of taking initiative and being proactive in achieving goals or creating change. It’s about understanding that you have the power to influence what happens in your life through your actions and decisions.

This perspective has roots in various historical contexts, but it’s often attributed to John F. Kennedy. As the 35th President of the United States, Kennedy was a big advocate for taking bold, decisive actions rather than waiting for things to unfold on their own. His leadership approach during the Cold War, the space race, and civil rights movement is a testament to this belief. Kennedy’s era was all about taking charge and making things happen.

Let’s consider a real-life example. Think about the story of J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series. She wasn’t an overnight success. Before she became one of the world’s most famous authors, she faced numerous rejections from publishers. She was a struggling single mother with little money, but she didn’t give up. Rowling made her dream happen through persistent effort and belief in her work. She didn’t wait for an opportunity to fall into her lap; she created it through sheer determination and hard work.

Now, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by setting clear, actionable goals. Break down what you want to achieve into smaller, manageable tasks. Then, take consistent steps towards those goals. This might mean developing new skills, seeking out opportunities, networking, or simply putting in the hard work day in and day out. Remember, nothing worth having comes easy. Persistence and proactive effort are key.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend who’s frustrated about their career. They keep saying they hate their job and wish for a better one. Instead of just listening, you might remind them of this idea. “Hey, you know things don’t just happen, right? Things are made to happen. If you want a new job, you’ve got to start looking, apply to positions, maybe even take some courses to beef up your resume. You can’t just sit around waiting for the perfect job to knock on your door.”

This concept isn’t just about career goals, though. Think about relationships, health, or personal growth. If you want a closer relationship with someone, make the effort to spend quality time with them and communicate openly. If you’re aiming for better health, start exercising and eating right — don't wait for the “perfect time” to start. The same goes for personal growth; read more books, seek out new experiences, and step out of your comfort zone.

In essence, this quote is a call to action. It’s a reminder that we have agency over our lives. We’re not just passive players in the game of life; we’re the main characters who can steer the story in the direction we want. So, next time you’re wishing for something to change, remember: you have the power to make it happen. Just roll up your sleeves and get to work.