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While Others
A short, encouraging poem by William Arthur Ward about taking action, making plans, and continuing when others give up.
It is easy to dream about what we want to accomplish. Taking that first step, however, can be much harder. We may doubt ourselves, wait for the perfect time, or convince ourselves that we will begin tomorrow. Before we know it, another day has passed without making progress.
William Arthur Ward's poem While Others reminds us that success requires more than good intentions. We need to plan, learn, prepare, and follow through. His short lines encourage us to make wise choices and keep going, even when the work is difficult.
Whether you are graduating, starting something new, or working toward a long-held goal, let this poem remind you that small actions taken consistently can make a difference. You do not have to accomplish everything today, but you can take one step forward.
Updated October 13, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
While Others
Poet: William Arthur Ward
Believe while others are doubting.
Plan while others are playing.
Study while others are sleeping.
Decide while others are delaying.
Prepare while others are daydreaming.
Begin while others are procrastinating.
Work while others are wishing.
Save while others are wasting.
Listen while others are talking.
Smile while others are frowning.
Commend while others are criticizing,
Persist while others are quitting.
Key Reflections In This Poem
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Believe in what you can accomplish.
Doubt can keep us from trying something new. Confidence grows when we are willing to begin and learn along the way.
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Turn plans into action.
Dreams need more than good intentions to become reality. Making a plan and taking the first step moves us closer to our goals.
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Make wise choices each day.
Studying, preparing, saving, and listening may seem like small things. Over time, these habits can make a meaningful difference.
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Keep going when the work gets difficult.
Not every day will be easy, and progress may be slow. Persistence helps us move forward instead of giving up too soon.
Popular Pages
If these verses have encouraged you, explore more poems and quotes about choices, determination, and looking ahead with hope.
Share our Graduation Sayings with someone beginning an exciting new chapter in life.
Find encouragement to believe in yourself with these Doubt Quotes.
Remember that your choices matter as you read You Decide.
Look toward tomorrow with hope through our Poems About The Future.
When you feel like quitting, turn to our Keep Going Poems for a little encouragement.
Find meaningful words for life's milestones in our Special Occasion Poems.
Conclusion
William Arthur Ward reminds us that reaching a goal begins with what we choose to do today. We can spend our time wishing things were different, or we can make a plan, take action, and keep moving forward. Even a small step is better than standing still.
We hope While Others encourages you to believe in your abilities and not give up when challenges arise. Share these words with a graduate, a friend working toward a dream, or anyone who needs a reminder that persistence matters.
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