If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door.
Milton BerleRead
I'd rather be a could-be if I cannot be an are; because a could-be is a maybe who is reaching for a star. I'd rather be a has-been than a might-have-been, by far; for a might have-been has never been, but a has was once an are.
Interpretation
What this quote means
It is better to strive for your dreams and risk failure than to never try at all.
This quote emphasizes the importance of striving for one's goals, suggesting that it is preferable to be a 'could-be' who is actively pursuing aspirations, rather than a passive 'might-have-been' who never took action. It highlights the value of taking risks and embracing possibilities, regardless of the outcome, as this pursuit grants a sense of achievement and growth even if success isn’t guaranteed.
Themes
DreamsPursuitRiskFailureAmbitionPossibility
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to young entrepreneurs.
More from Milton Berle
All quotes →Laughter is an instant vacation.
Milton BerleRead
There's a difference between being a comic and a comedian. A comic is a guy who says funny things, and a comedian is a guy who says things funny, and he has a style and point of view that will last much longer.
Milton BerleRead
Similar quotes
Remember why you started, remember where you're headed, think of how great it will be to get there, and keep going.
Ralph MarstonRead
Adversity often produces an unexpected opportunity. Look for it ! Appreciate and utilize it! This is difficult to do if you're feeling sorry for yourself because you're faced with adversity.
John WoodenRead
They say when opportunity knocks you should let it in and invite it to sit at your table. F*** that -- when opportunity knocks, you should take it captive. Beat that s*** down. I've got opportunity tied to a chair in my basement with a ball gag in its mouth. Opportunity ain't even thinking about leaving my house. If you keep quiet for a second, you'll hear it whining.
Tracy MorganRead
It didn't matter how good I was. It was always, 'You're a girl. You can't play with the guys.' It's always been motivation for me.
Sheryl SwoopesRead
I think the future also will not belong to those who are cynical or those who stand on the sidelines
Paul WellstoneRead
If we try and fail, we have temporary disappointments. But if we do not try at all, we have permanent regrets.
Bernard WilliamsRead