Quote 44: “Never apologize for trying hard. It is an insult to your determination.” - Might Duy
- Dr. ARUN V J
- Sep 14
- 3 min read
Introduction: A Lesson From Anime That Stays for Life
Anime is often dismissed as “kids’ play.” But those who brush it off rarely realize how deeply it can shape young minds. Beneath the action, colors, and story arcs lie lessons about grit, sacrifice, and resilience.
This single line carried weight far beyond the screen. It’s not just dialogue—it’s a life philosophy. And if you’ve ever found yourself mocked for your efforts, doubted for your dreams, or ridiculed after failure, you’ll know exactly why this matters.
Why Did Might Dai Say This?
Might Dai wasn’t the strongest. In fact, he was ridiculed by peers and dismissed by society. But he carried one thing others lacked—unshakable determination.
The quote was born out of frustration against a culture that sneers at effort, that glorifies results but mocks the climb. He taught his son, and us, that apologizing for effort means belittling the one quality that keeps humans moving forward—determination.
The Psychology Behind It: Why We Fear Failure More Than We Chase Success
Humans are risk averse by design. Psychology research shows we fear losses more than we value gains.
That’s why:
We avoid trying if there’s a chance of failure.
We internalize criticism more than praise.
We remember “I told you so” longer than “well done.”
But this wiring is a flaw when it comes to growth. By fearing failure, we paralyze our determination.
Standing at the Crossroads of Failure
At some point, you’ll fail. And when you do, the world blurs:
You lose vision.
Doubts creep in.
The ridicule begins: “I knew it wouldn’t work.”
This is the moment that defines you. Not the victory. Not the applause. But what you do when the crowd mocks you.
Apologizing for effort at this stage is betrayal. Not to them—but to yourself.
Make Your Own Rules
History proves it—no great leader, thinker, or innovator had it easy. They all faced ridicule. They all had “haters.”
Thomas Edison was told he had “too many failed experiments.”
J.K. Rowling was rejected by multiple publishers.
Abraham Lincoln failed in elections repeatedly before becoming president.
If they had apologized for trying, we’d never know their names.
So here’s the rule: fall seven times, stand up eight.
Why Others Pull You Down
When people discourage you, it’s rarely about you. It’s about them.
Their vision was clipped early by society.
They gave up on their own dreams.
Your determination makes them uncomfortable.
They cannot see your path because it’s not theirs. Don’t let their blindness become your barrier.
Persist, But With Heart
Persistence doesn’t mean arrogance. It means pushing forward with:
Ethics – don’t trample others while chasing goals.
Empathy – understand that critics reflect their own pain.
If you hate them back, you become what you despise. Instead, be gentle. Let your results speak. Let your determination inspire. Over time, your actions can open their eyes.
Action Steps: How to Protect Your Determination
Stop apologizing for effort. Next time someone says “you’re trying too hard,” smile and thank them—it’s proof you’re moving.
Redefine failure. Treat every failed attempt as feedback, not defeat.
Control your inner critic. Replace “I’m not good enough” with “I’m still learning.”
Keep a vision board. Remind yourself daily why you started.
Practice empathy. When criticized, ask: “What pain is this person projecting?”
Final Thought
Determination is your gift. Never insult it with an apology. You owe yourself the right to try, fail, rise, and try again.
Remember Might Dai’s words—etched not just for anime fans, but for anyone who has ever dared to keep moving despite the odds:
“Never apologize for trying hard. It is an insult to your determination.”
👉 If this struck a chord, share it with someone who’s doubting themselves today. Sometimes, a single reminder is all it takes to reignite determination.
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