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Great players never look in the mirror and think I'm a great basketball player. You ask yourself, Am I the best player I can be?
Michael Jordan
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True greatness is about continuous self-improvement rather than self-admiration.

In this quote, Michael Jordan emphasizes that the mindset of exceptional players revolves around self-evaluation and striving for personal bests rather than resting on their past achievements. It encourages individuals to focus more on their potential and the effort required to reach it, instead of getting complacent with their current status or skills.

Themes

GreatnessSelf-ImprovementBasketballMindsetContinuous Learning

In practice

Example use cases

In a sports motivational speech to young athletes.

More from Michael Jordan

I've always believed that if you put in the work, the results will come.
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There are no shortcuts. I approached practices the same way I approached games. You can't turn it on and off like a faucet. I couldn't dog it during practice and then, when I needed that extra push late in the game, expect it to be there. Very few people get anywhere by taking shortcuts.
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Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.
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If you're trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I've had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.
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Don't be like me. Be better than me. That's the goal.
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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.
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