There are many ways that lead to success, such as an intelligent mind, a strong will or a passionate heart. For Abraham Lincoln, his way of success is to make full preparations. He would spend 2/3 of his time “sharpening his axe”, which is truly phenomenal.
Lincoln's famous remark embodies great wisdom, carrying at least two important implications. Success never comes to us accidentally, but as a result of continuous and patient planning and preparing. Having defined our goal, we must have a clear idea about the means to attain the goal. Without sufficient preparations, many of our efforts would be random and we would most probably end up in failure.
Another crucial implication is that, in order to succeed, we must keep “sharpening our axe”. Ours is a technology-dominated world and our social progress is inextricably connected with technological advances. It is perhaps because of Lincoln’s wisdom that the United States lays special emphasis on developing technologies and has become the world’s most technologically developed country.
Keeping Lincoln’s wisdom in mind, we should be well prepared in everything we do. Moreover, we should never stop where we are and keep searching for more effective means to reach our objectives.