The problem with taking offense is that it's really hard to figure out what to do with it after you're done using it. Better to just leave it on the table and walk away. Umbrage untaken quietly disappears.
The competitive advantages the marketplace demands is someone more human, connected, and mature. Someone with passion and energy, capable of seeing things as they are and negotiating multiple priorities as she makes useful decisions without angst. Flexible in the face of change, resilient in the face of confusion. All of these attributes are choices, not talents, and all of them are available to you.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that success in a competitive marketplace relies on personal qualities like humanity, connection, and resilience, which are choices anyone can make.
In this quote, Seth Godin underscores the importance of embodying human qualities such as connection, maturity, and passion in a competitive environment. He suggests that success is less about inherent talent and more about the conscious choices individuals make to be flexible, resilient, and capable of prioritizing effectively amidst challenges. Godin empowers individuals by highlighting that these valuable attributes are accessible to everyone, encouraging a proactive approach to personal development.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech for business professionals.
More from Seth Godin
All quotes →Not adding value is the same as taking it away.
Excellence isn’t about meeting the spec, it’s about setting the spec. It defines what the consumer sees as quality right this minute, and tomorrow, if you’re good, you’ll reset that expectation again
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I do not know the word 'quit.' Either I never did, or I have abolished it.
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People who take huge risks aren't afraid to fail. In fact, they love to fail. It's because failing means they found the edge.