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who said big things have small beginnings ?

### Big Things Have Small Beginnings: A Lesson from Lawrence of Arabia and Prometheus

The idea that big things have small beginnings is one of the most profound and empowering sentiments we come across daily. This quote – made famous in Ridley Scott’s film “Prometheus” by the character David, an android – originally comes from Lawrence of Arabia and has inspired countless lives. Today, it serves as an inspiring reminder that no matter how small an act is, it can often lead to the accomplishment of grand goals.

#### Origins and Context

In “Prometheus,” the significance of this phrase is one of contemplation and motivation for the character David, a highly evolved android, as he reflects on the nature of life and beginnings. However, the true context behind these words can be traced back to the story of T. E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia. In recounting the history of the Middle East, a small but impactful Bedouin army managed to influence a broader outcome in a war against the Turks, showing that even a seemingly insignificant group can have significant impacts.

#### The Philosophy Behind the Quote

The message in the saying ‘big things have small beginnings’ is simple yet profound: the greatest of accomplishments often start modestly. Whether this is applied to the development of an idea, the construction of a business, or achieving goals in personal life, the principle remains the same. Every great work of art, every groundbreaking discovery, every successful venture begins with a simple step, an inkling of an idea, or the smallest action.

In the context of business and personal development, the idea of making small, consistent progress is particularly important. Starting a business, writing a novel, or even making a positive change in one’s life can feel overwhelming. But as billionaire entrepreneur Warren Buffett once stated, “Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.” True success comes from a series of small, consistent steps, which build momentum and confidence until the entire path to your big goal becomes clearer.

#### Inspiration from Literature and Media

Media often capitalizes on this idea—movies, books, and even comics frequently portray stories rooted in this concept. A prime example in the literary world is the tale of Harry Potter, where a boy with meager beginnings grows to become a worldwide hero. In the business realm, the stories of Apple and Microsoft are testaments to how starting small—basement laboratories and dorm rooms—can lead to an empire building.

#### The Psychological Impact

From a psychological perspective, the message serves as encouragement for those who aspire but are often hindered by the fear of starting. It is human nature to be daunted by the magnitude of a task, but the assurance that success does not follow a high-intensity, all-out effort from the start is often relieving. It shows that taking the first step, no matter how small, is always better than doing nothing.

#### Making Small Steps Great Again

Take the journey of a business entrepreneur, for example. Anyone starting a business can easily be daunted by the size of the task. Yet, they start by taking small steps. They find an office, create a web page, build a network, and gradually expand their operational capacity. Each step might seem barely impactful at the time, but collectively, they represent growth and achievement.

#### Conclusion

The timeless wisdom encapsulated in “big things have small beginnings” is more relevant today than ever. This phrase is a lesson not only in perseverance and the power of action but also in humility and patience. It reinforces the idea that any journey, no matter how significant its end goal, starts with a single step. How many of us, overwhelmed by the thought of our dreams, are waiting for that grandiose start? But perhaps we ought to embrace our David, our humble android, and recognize that even the most ambitious endeavors begin with the smallest of actions. Let’s take the small steps today to make the big achievements tomorrow.

By encapsulating the spirit of progress and achievement from seemingly inconspicuous origins, the legacy of this quote shines brightly, offering hope and inspiration in the face of our ambitions.