There is no royal flower strewn path to success. And if there is, I have not found it, for whatever success I have attained has been the result of much hard work and many sleepless nights.
Madam C. J. WalkerRead
Everybody told me I was making a mistake by going into this business, but I know how to grow hair as well as I know how to grow cotton.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Trust your instincts and expertise despite criticism from others.
This quote by Madam C. J. Walker highlights the importance of self-confidence and belief in one's abilities, especially when facing skepticism from others. Walker, a pioneering African American entrepreneur, emphasizes that she understands her business as well as a farmer knows how to cultivate crops, suggesting that expertise and passion can lead to success regardless of the doubts expressed by those around her.
Themes
SuccessBusinessConfidenceExpertiseCriticism
In practice
Example use cases
During a business presentation to inspire confidence among investors.
More from Madam C. J. Walker
All quotes →I am not satisfied in making money for myself. I endeavor to provide employment for hundreds of the women of my race.
Madam C. J. WalkerRead
I have made it possible for many colored women to abandon the washtub for a more pleasant and profitable occupation.
Madam C. J. WalkerRead
Don't think that because you have to go down in the wash-tub that you are any less a lady!
Madam C. J. WalkerRead
The girls and women of our race must not be afraid to take hold of business endeavor and, by patient industry, close economy, determined effort and close application to business, wring success out of a number of business opportunities that lie at their very doors.
Madam C. J. WalkerRead
As I bent over the washboard and looked at my arms buried in soapsuds, I said to myself, 'What are you going to do when you grow old and your back gets stiff?' This set me to thinking, but with all my thinking I couldn't see how a poor washerwoman was going to better my condition.
Madam C. J. WalkerRead
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