Architecture starts when you carefully put two bricks together. There it begins.
By: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
Imagine for a moment the grandest structures that have ever graced the skyline. The towering skyscrapers, the sprawling bridges, and the majestic monuments that stand as testaments to human ingenuity. Now, strip away the layers of complexity and grandeur, and what are you left with? The humble beginning of two bricks carefully placed together. This is the essence of the quote by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a pioneer of modern architecture, who reminds us that every great endeavor begins with a simple, yet deliberate, action.
It’s a concept that resonates far beyond the realm of architecture. It’s about the universal journey of creation and the beauty of starting small. Whether you’re a student, an artist, a businessperson, or an athlete, the principle remains the same: progress begins with a single step, a foundational brick upon which everything else is built.
There’s a certain magic in the act of starting. It’s filled with potential, hope, and the thrill of what might be. Yet, so often, we overlook the importance of those initial steps. We’re enamored by the end goal, the finished product, and in doing so, we forget that the journey to greatness is composed of many small, carefully executed steps.
When you begin with two bricks, you’re not just laying a physical foundation; you’re cultivating patience, precision, and vision. Each brick represents a lesson, a challenge overcome, and a step closer to your ultimate goal. It’s a process that requires you to be present, to pay attention to the details, and to respect the importance of each component, no matter how small it may seem.
One of the most powerful aspects of starting small is the principle of incremental progress. By focusing on one small task at a time, you build momentum. Each success, no matter how minor, fuels your motivation and propels you forward. This is how habits are formed, skills are honed, and masterpieces are created.
Consider the writer who commits to penning just one sentence each day. It may seem insignificant at first, but over time, those sentences accumulate into paragraphs, chapters, and eventually, a complete novel. The same can be said for the musician practicing scales, the athlete running laps, or the entrepreneur refining their pitch. The cumulative effect of small, consistent actions is what leads to monumental achievements.
Despite the simplicity of starting with two bricks, many of us hesitate. We’re paralyzed by the fear of failure, the uncertainty of the unknown, or the daunting nature of our dreams. But the beauty of starting small is that it’s manageable. It’s a commitment to making progress without the pressure of needing to have everything figured out from the outset.
Every brick you place is an opportunity to learn and to improve. Mistakes will be made, and that’s okay. Each error is a guidepost, directing you to a better way of doing things. By starting small, you give yourself the permission to grow, to adapt, and to evolve as you move closer to your goal.
There’s an inherent joy in the process of building, of creating something from nothing. When you focus on the act of placing one brick at a time, you become more engaged with your work. You begin to appreciate the textures, the colors, and the weight of each brick. You become attuned to the subtle nuances of your craft, and in doing so, you find happiness in the work itself, not just the outcome.
This joy is what sustains you through the challenges and setbacks. It’s what keeps you coming back, day after day, to add another brick to your growing structure. And as you do, you’ll find that your skills improve, your confidence grows, and what once seemed impossible now feels within reach.
Ultimately, the act of starting with two bricks is about more than just creating something remarkable. It’s about building your legacy. Each brick you lay is a testament to your dedication, your passion, and your willingness to do the work. It’s a reflection of who you are and what you value.
As you continue to build, brick by brick, you’re not just constructing a physical structure; you’re shaping the narrative of your life. You’re defining what you stand for and what you want to leave behind. And when you look back on the path you’ve traveled, you’ll see that it all began with the simple, profound act of placing two bricks together.
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s quote is an invitation to each of us to start where we are, with what we have. It’s a call to action that resonates with the dreamer in all of us. So, take a moment to consider what two bricks you can put together today. What small step can you take towards your goals? Remember, the journey to greatness begins with the simplest of actions. Embrace the start, enjoy the process, and build a legacy one brick at a time.
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was a German-American architect who is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modernist architecture. His philosophy emphasized clarity and simplicity through the use of modern materials and minimalist design.
This quote highlights the importance of starting small and the foundational nature of the initial steps in any creative process. It suggests that the act of beginning, even with the simplest of actions, is where the essence of architecture – or any endeavor – truly starts.
The principle can be applied to any goal or project. It emphasizes the importance of taking the first step, no matter how small, and building upon it incrementally. This approach can lead to the development of habits, skills, and eventually, the achievement of larger objectives.
Focusing on small steps helps to make the process manageable and less overwhelming. It allows for continuous progress and learning, and it can help maintain motivation by providing a sense of achievement with each step taken.
Starting small reduces the pressure and fear associated with taking on big projects. It allows individuals to make progress without the stress of needing to have everything figured out, which can make the task seem more achievable and less intimidating.
Incremental progress is the accumulation of small, consistent actions that lead to significant achievements over time. It builds momentum and can transform modest beginnings into great accomplishments.
Yes, making mistakes is a natural and valuable part of the process. Mistakes provide learning opportunities and help refine techniques and approaches, leading to better results in the long run.
Finding joy in the process means engaging with and appreciating each step of the creative journey. It involves taking pleasure in the act of building and creating, rather than focusing solely on the final product.
Each small step you take is a reflection of your commitment and values. By consistently adding to your work, you’re creating a body of achievements that represents your dedication and passion, which contributes to your legacy.
The first step is to identify a simple, actionable task that moves you in the direction of your goals. It could be as straightforward as writing a to-do list, practicing a skill for a few minutes, or reaching out to a potential mentor or collaborator.
