You Can, But Will You? - 5. YOU CAN, BUT WILL YOU? - Orison Swett Marden (1920) - HQ Full Book.In Chapter Five of *You Can, But Will You?*, titled "You Can, But Will You?", Orison Swett Marden delivers an inspiring and motivational exploration of the power of determination, willpower, and a positive mental attitude in overcoming obstacles and achieving success. This chapter emphasizes that success is not reserved for the strongest or most privileged but for those who possess the resolute will to victory, encapsulated in the mantra "I can, and I will." Through vivid examples of individuals who triumphed over adversity—such as William D. Upshaw and Frank W. Woolworth—Marden challenges readers to reject excuses, embrace their potential, and take decisive action toward their goals. The chapter is a call to action, urging individuals to cultivate an unyielding belief in their ability to succeed, regardless of circumstances.  Marden opens the chapter with a powerful quote: “Life’s battle does not always go to the stronger or faster man; But soon or late the man who wins’ Is the one who Thinks he can.” This sets the tone for his argument that success hinges on mindset and determination rather than physical or circumstantial advantages. He introduces the story of William D. Upshaw, a man who overcame severe physical limitations to achieve remarkable success. At eighteen, Upshaw suffered a near-fatal accident that left him bedridden for seven years, enduring excruciating pain. Despite this, he resumed his education and career, using a wheelchair and later crutches. Through writing, lecturing, and fundraising, he earned enough to attend Mercer University, raised significant funds for educational institutions, and eventually won a seat in Congress against seasoned competitors. Marden contrasts Upshaw’s relentless drive with the complaints of healthy young people who lament a lack of opportunity, illustrating that determination can overcome even the most daunting barriers.  To further underscore his point, Marden shares a letter from a discouraged young man who believes that opportunities for success are scarce in a modern, systematized business world. This individual argues that ambitious, capable young people are confined to rigid roles with minimal pay and little room for advancement. Marden refutes this mindset, asserting that it represents a self-defeating attitude that stifles potential. He contrasts this with the “I can, and I will” philosophy, which he credits for the victories of historical figures like Marshal Foch, who attributed his success in World War I to unwavering faith and refusal to despair. Marden argues that this mindset, not mere intelligence or resources, is the key to triumphing over adversity. He emphasizes that a lack of will leads to failure, even for those with great talent, while a resolute will can transform challenges into opportunities.  Marden then introduces the story of Frank W. Woolworth, whose perseverance led to the creation of the iconic Woolworth Building and a vast retail empire. Born into poverty with no initial advantages, Woolworth faced repeated failures but persisted with grit and determination. Starting as an unpaid grocery clerk, he worked his way up, eventually establishing a chain of over 1,000 five-and-ten-cent stores and constructing a landmark building in New York City. Marden highlights Woolworth’s journey as a testament to the power of the “will to victory,” showing that success is achievable even in the face of poverty and setbacks when one refuses to give up.  The chapter also draws on military analogies to reinforce the importance of determination. Marden recounts Admiral Farragut’s assertion that preparing for defeat is tantamount to inviting it, and he describes an American battalion that refused to retreat during a fierce German attack, ultimately prevailing through sheer courage. These examples illustrate that a mindset focused on victory, rather than anticipating failure, is critical to success in both war and peace. Marden argues that the world seeks individuals who reject defeat, remain steadfast under pressure, and pursue their goals with unwavering resolve. Marden extends this philosophy to everyday life, asserting that everyone is “born for victory, not for defeat.” He encourages readers to view failures as temporary setbacks, mere “way stations” on the path to success. He cites the example of William Schenck, a blind high school student who graduated at the top of his class and earned a scholarship through sheer determination. Similarly, Marden references Fred Douglas, a former slave who overcame immense barriers to gain an education and become a prominent advocate for his race. These stories reinforce the idea that obstacles, no matter how formidable, can be surmounted with a strong will and persistent effort.  The chapter challenges readers to examine their own mental attitudes and take responsibility for their success. Marden questions why so many young people, aware of their potential, fail to act on it, often citing fear, weak will, or perceived insurmountable obstacles. He urges readers to make a firm resolution to succeed, likening it to “burning bridges” behind them to commit fully to their goals. This resolute mindset, he argues, strengthens character and keeps one’s focus on the ultimate objective, ensuring steady progress despite setbacks.  Marden also addresses the tendency to wait for perfect conditions or external help, using the example of Governor Alfred E. Smith, who began with humble jobs like selling newspapers and fish but kept his ambitions in sight. He emphasizes that success does not depend on fine tools, wealth, or connections but on the “greatness in the man.” The “golden opportunity,” Marden asserts, lies within oneself, accessible through a supreme effort that taps into one’s deepest potential. He warns against half-hearted efforts, which only skim the surface of one’s capabilities, and calls for a “masterly will” that unlocks inner treasures and leads to extraordinary achievements.  The chapter concludes with a powerful reflection on James J. Hill, the “Empire Builder” who transformed the Northwest through his vision and relentless determination. Despite skepticism about his dreams of prosperity in a barren region, Hill’s unwavering will turned his vision into reality, earning him widespread admiration. Marden uses this example to inspire readers, asserting that they, too, have greater opportunities than many historical figures, thanks to modern advantages. He urges immediate action, declaring that “today is the day of Destiny” and that victory is within reach for those who will it.  #YouCanButWillYou #OrisonSwettMarden #WillToVictory #SuccessMindset #Determination #OvercomeObstacles #ICanAndIWill #Resilience #Motivation #Persistence #WilliamUpshaw #FrankWoolworth #SelfBelief #VictoryMindset #NoExcuses #PersonalGrowth #SuccessStories #MentalAttitude #CourageToWin #AchieveYourGoalsIn summary, Chapter Five of *You Can, But Will You?* is a stirring call to embrace the “I can, and I will” mindset, using real-life examples to demonstrate that determination and a positive mental attitude can overcome any obstacle. Marden’s message is timeless: success is not about external circumstances but about the inner resolve to pursue one’s goals relentlessly. By rejecting excuses and committing fully to their aspirations, readers can unlock their potential and achieve greatness.