Meaning: The quote "Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for: it is a thing to be achieved" by William Jennings Bryan encapsulates the idea that our destiny is not predetermined by random events or luck, but rather it is shaped by the choices we make and the actions we take. Bryan, a prominent American politician and orator, emphasizes the proactive nature of destiny, highlighting the importance of personal agency and determination in shaping one's future.

The first part of the quote, "Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice," suggests that our fate is not determined by external forces or mere luck. Instead, it emphasizes the role of individual decisions and free will in shaping the course of one's life. This sentiment aligns with the philosophical concept of determinism, which posits that individuals have the power to influence their own destinies through intentional actions and choices.

The second part of the quote, "it is not a thing to be waited for: it is a thing to be achieved," further underscores the proactive nature of destiny. Rather than passively anticipating or hoping for a predetermined outcome, Bryan asserts that individuals must actively work towards achieving their desired destiny. This idea aligns with the concept of self-determination, emphasizing the importance of effort, perseverance, and purposeful action in realizing one's aspirations.

Overall, Bryan's quote serves as a powerful reminder that individuals have the ability to shape their own destinies through conscious decision-making and proactive effort. It encourages a mindset of empowerment and self-responsibility, rejecting the notion of being mere subjects to the whims of fate or external circumstances.

From a psychological perspective, the quote aligns with the concept of locus of control, which refers to an individual's belief about the underlying causes of events in their lives. People with an internal locus of control believe that they have a significant influence on the outcomes of their actions, while those with an external locus of control attribute events to external circumstances or luck. Bryan's quote promotes an internal locus of control, encouraging individuals to take ownership of their destinies and exercise agency in shaping their lives.

In the realm of self-help and personal development, the quote resonates with the principles of goal setting, perseverance, and the law of attraction. It underscores the importance of setting clear goals and taking deliberate steps towards achieving them, rather than passively hoping for success. This aligns with the popular notion that a positive mindset, focused intention, and persistent effort can lead to the manifestation of one's desired destiny.

In conclusion, William Jennings Bryan's quote serves as a powerful affirmation of the role of choice, agency, and proactive effort in shaping one's destiny. It encourages individuals to embrace a sense of personal empowerment and responsibility, rejecting the notion of being mere bystanders to fate. By emphasizing the transformative potential of intentional action and determination, the quote inspires a mindset of purposeful living and self-determined success.