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Genius is an infinite capacity for taking pains.
~~ Thomas Carlyle ~~ (1795 – 1881)

I think the use of the phrase, ‘infinite capacity for taking pains’ is an exaggeration to make a point. But almost all the people we consider as genius, tell us that their success is more the result of their persistent hard work (taking pains) and resolute determination not to give up in the face of failures rather than their intellect. Failure is always painful; what sets the genius apart from the ordinary is their enthusiastic willingness and capacity for enduring the pain in the pursuit of their objectives.

Not everybody has the discipline, the willingness or the capacity to be a genius. However, we have within ourselves to develop these qualities by making conscious efforts and become better, if not an outright genius, at whatever we do in life.

By the way, what or who is a genius? The American Heritage Dictionary defines genius as ‘A person of extraordinary intellect and talent’.

Now intellect and talent are qualities that anybody can improve upon if they so desire.

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