# LXVII: Decision of Character explained — The Kural > Chapter companion for The Kural by Thiruvalluvar. ## What happens This chapter emphasizes the paramount importance of willpower and determination in achieving greatness. It advises that true achievement stems from resolute purpose, discretion in revealing plans, and perseverance through obstacles. The wise act with foresight, avoid premature disclosure, and persist despite hardships, as the world esteems those who accomplish great deeds. ## Themes in this chapter ### Asceticism and Spiritual Discipline The chapter extols mental fortitude and self-discipline in pursuing one's purpose despite suffering. ### Statecraft and Governance The emphasis on resolute action and discretion in revealing plans is directly applicable to kingly duties and leadership. ## Character check-ins ### Thiruvalluvar Author of the Kural verses on decision of character and willpower. ### the Kural The text itself, containing the teachings on resolve and perseverance. ## Key lines > Greatness of achievement is nought else but the greatness of the will that striveth therefor: all other things come not near the mark. The magnitude of what you achieve is simply the magnitude of your will to achieve it; nothing else matters as much. _Core thesis of the chapter: willpower is the primary determinant of success._ > To avoid all action that is bound to fail and not to turn away from one’s purpose because of obstacles: these two are said to be the guiding principles of the wise. The wise avoid doomed efforts but also refuse to abandon their goal when faced with difficulties. _Balanced wisdom: discernment in choosing battles, yet steadfastness in chosen ones._ > The man of action letteth his purpose appear only when that purpose is achieved: for an untimely disclosure would create obstacles that cannot be surmounted. A person of action reveals their goal only after accomplishing it, because revealing it too early invites insurmountable obstacles. _Emphasis on strategic secrecy and discretion._ > Behold the man who hath acquired a name for the doing of great deeds: his services will be greatly in request with the prince and will be esteemed by all. A person renowned for great achievements will be sought after by rulers and respected by everyone. _Social and political rewards of a reputation for accomplishment._ > That which they will, men acquire even in the manner that they will, provided they will with all their might. People get what they want, exactly as they want it, if they want it with their whole strength. _The power of wholehearted desire and effort._ > Despise not a man for his look: for there are men who are even as the axle pin of the mighty rolling car. Do not judge someone by appearance; some people are as crucial as the axle pin of a great chariot. _Warning against superficial judgments; hidden potential._ > When thou hast resolved upon a thing with all thy wits about thee, waver not but pursue thy purpose with vigour. Once you have carefully decided on a course, do not hesitate—pursue it energetically. _Call for unwavering commitment after thoughtful deliberation._ > Take up the doing of works that increase happiness: and even if thou have to suffer cruel mortification in the doing of them, steel thy heart and persevere to the end. Undertake actions that bring happiness, and even if you endure severe hardship, remain resolute and finish them. _Endurance of suffering for the sake of ultimate well-being._ > Behold the men that have not the ambition to do great deeds: the world will not care for them whatever their other virtues may be. Those without ambition for great achievements will be ignored by the world, no matter their other good qualities. _Ambition and action are essential for worldly recognition._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters/lxvii-decision-of-character - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_kural_se/chapters