An achievement is a bondage. It obliges one to a higher achievement.
Interpretation
Achievements can create pressure to achieve even more, leading to a cycle of striving.
In this quote, Albert Camus suggests that while achieving something significant is often celebrated, it can also impose new expectations and responsibilities on an individual. Once one achievement is reached, the individual may feel compelled to pursue even greater accomplishments, creating a sense of bondage to the pursuit of success.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to address the challenges of pursuing success.
The Poor Man whom everyone speaks of, the Poor Man whom everyone pities, one of the repulsive Poor from whom charitable souls keep their distance, he has still said nothing. Or, rather, he has spoken through the voice of Victor Hugo, Zola, Richepin. At least, they said so. And these shameful impostures fed their authors. Cruel irony, the Poor Man tormented with hunger feeds those who plead his case.
The certainty of a God giving meaning to life far surpasses in attractiveness the ability to behave badly with impunity. The choice would not be hard to make. But there is no choice and that is where the bitterness comes in. The absurd does not liberate; it binds.
Between history and the eternal I have chosen history because I like certainties. Of it, at least, I am certain, and how can I deny this force crushing me.
Don't wait for the last judgment - it takes place every day.
A single sentence will suffice for modern man. He fornicated and read the papers. After that vigorous definition, the subject will be, if I may say so, exhausted.
At times I feel myself overtaken by an immense tenderness for these people around me who live in the same century.
I had great football players. To be quite truthful, my great football players, the ones who wanted the ball at the end of the games, they weren't focused on money. They want to do something great. They want to go to Pro Bowls. They want to win Super Bowls. Those are the people that succeed in sports - or in business.
Spectacular achievements come from unspectacular preparation.
If you're going to be a player people will remember, you have to win the Open at St. Andrews.
If you are seizing on a new business opportunity, deliberately move your customers' expectations up a few notches and consistently over-deliver on your promises - you will leave your competitors struggling to catch up.
Build and they will comeβ is not a strategy, itβs a prayer.
Ability is important in our quest for success, but dependability is critical.
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