What kind I give as an example to this quote "We aim above the mark to hit the mark"?

Question

I KNOW WHAT THE QUOTE MEANS. I JUST NEED AN EXAMPLE!

Answer 1

When you're shooting long distances, you aim above the mark, because gravity causes the arrow to come down before it gets to the target. When you're trying to accomplish something, you also want to aim higher than your "target" to allow for some mistakes which pull you down like gravity pulls the arrow down. If you need 500 points to get an "A," aim for 550. Then if you make some mistakes, such as doing poorly on a test, you'll still have your 500 points and an "A."

I thought that aiming for 550 instead of 500 to get an "A" was giving you an example.

Answer 2

Are you into archery? Because of the force of gravity, the moment the arrow leaves the bow, it will be pulled downwards towards the earth. Hence, for long distance shooting, it is usual that we aim a little higher than the mark to compensate for the earth's gravity.

“If you would hit the mark, you must aim a little above it;
Every arrow that flies feels the attraction of earth.” ... Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Of course, this is scientific. If you are looking for philosophical answers, I am sure you can think of many examples. For instance, how you always strive for perfection because if you should not achieve that, you would at least come close to a very good performance which you are contented with.

Answer 3

It's probably a very good example to people, kids in particular, that allays the old 'If you don't win you're nothing' syndrome. Aim higher than you want to achieve and if you come in a little bit lower you've still done the very best that you can. Too many kids and people seem to suffer mental problems if they aren't the absolute best at everything they try to achieve. Give yourselves a break and just do the best you can. Half the winning is in giving it a go!