Strength in Adversity - Gandhi
An inspirational Mahatma Gandhi quote about staying motivated in the face of adversity.
INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE BLOGS
Nakia T. Allen-Berhan, MD, MHA
1/1/20251 min read


Mahatma Gandhi famously said, "Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will." This profound insight resonates especially with those embarking on the rigorous path to becoming licensed physicians. The journey to practice medicine is fraught with challenges beyond intellectual rigor and demands exceptional mental and emotional fortitude.
In pursuing a medical career, aspiring doctors face the academic hurdles of medical school grueling exams and the emotional and ethical challenges of patient care. In these moments of adversity—whether in the depths of a problematic residency shift or facing the complexities of a patient's suffering—the true strength of a physician is tested.
Gandhi's words remind us that the essence of true strength in medicine doesn’t solely rely on one’s physical or intellectual capacity; instead, it is the unwavering will to persevere, do good, serve others despite obstacles, and commit to lifelong learning and personal growth. For every aspiring physician, remember that your resilience—your indomitable will—is your greatest asset. It will sustain you, drive you, and ultimately define your success in pursuit of healing others.
Find inspiration with this sentiment in your darkest times, a reminder that beyond the rigorous demands of medical training lies the profound opportunity to make a difference through sheer force of will.