I think I'm not a natural-born salesman, for sure, but If I have a product I really believe in, I can overcome some of the shyness and get through the things that aren't natural to me.
Phil KnightRead
If there was no Bill Bowerman, there would have been no me. He had about as much of an impact on my life as any one person could have. He taught me about competition and ingrained it in me. He taught me not to praise ordinary performances.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Phil Knight credits Bill Bowerman as a crucial influence in his life, particularly in shaping his competitive spirit and expectations for performance.
In this quote, Phil Knight reflects on the profound impact that Bill Bowerman had on his life and career, emphasizing the foundational lessons he learned about competition and performance. Bowerman's mentorship instilled in Knight a drive to pursue excellence and a commitment to avoid complacency, which played a pivotal role in his successes. The quote illustrates the importance of mentorship and the lasting influence that one individual can have on another's journey.
Themes
MentorshipCompetitionInfluenceSuccessPerformance
In practice
Example use cases
During a graduation speech, you could reference this quote while discussing the importance of impactful teachers.
More from Phil Knight
All quotes →No parent should have their child die before he or she does.
Phil KnightRead
At first, we couldn't be establishment, because we didn't have any money. We were guerrilla marketers, and we still are, a little bit. But, as we became No. 1 in our industry, we've had to modify our culture and become a bit more planned.
Phil KnightRead
We wanted Nike to be the world's best sports and fitness company. Once you say that, you have a focus. You don't end up making wing tips or sponsoring the next Rolling Stones world tour.
Phil KnightRead
Running is a basic ingredient for your health, just as much as eating and sleeping, but going out for a run by yourself and taking a moment to think also creates a certain peace.
Phil KnightRead
Dare to take chances, lest you leave your talent buried in the ground.
Phil KnightRead
Similar quotes
Success isn't something you chase. It's something you have to put forth the effort for constantly. Then maybe it'll come when you least expect it. Most people don't understand that.
Michael JordanRead
I was probably born a scorer, but I was made a winner. Whatever works, whatever wins championships, wins games, that's what I do.
Kobe BryantRead
When I was publishing my first books, the previous generation of authors was fading away, so I was welcomed because I was a new author.
Orhan PamukRead
The culture precedes positive results. It doesn't get tacked on as an afterthought on your way to the victory stand. Champions behave like champions before they're champions: they have a winning standard of performance before they are winners.
Bill WalshRead
If we surround ourselves with people who are successful, who are forward-moving, who are positive, who are focused on producing results, who support us, it will challenge us to be more and do more and share more. If you can surround yourself with people who will never let you settle for less than you can be, you have the greatest gift that anyone can hope for.
Tony RobbinsRead
Past failures unlock future successes
Richard BransonRead