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
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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
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