The Man Who Thinks He Can


The Man Who Thinks He Can
by Walter D. WintlePoems That Live Forever, comp. Hazel Felleman 1965

If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don’t.
If you’d like to win, but think you can’t
It’s almost a cinch you won’t

If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost,
For out in the world we find
Success begins with a fellow’s will;
It’s all in the state of mind.

If you think you’re outclassed, you are.
You’ve got to think high to rise.
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.

Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man;
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the one who thinks he can.

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8 thoughts on “The Man Who Thinks He Can

  1. Hilary

    Hi BK .. I love this poem .. it’s a really strong tale of life .. ‘the one who thinks he can’ ..

    Excellent .. thanks – Hilary

  2. Symphony of Love Post author

    @ Hilary, I love it too, the first time I read it. It certainly reminds me that it is I and only I who can really determine my own future. Good to see you around. 🙂

  3. Ben

    That’s so true. If you think you’re defeated then you already are. Perseverance is the word that comes to mind. It’s so hard to keep getting up one more time, but it’s good to know that everyone else faces the same kinds of challenges.