The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you're still a rat.
Lily TomlinRead
I've always wanted to be somebody, but I see now I should have been more specific.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of clarity in our aspirations. It suggests that rather than just wanting to be 'somebody', we should define what being 'somebody' truly means to us.
Lily Tomlin's quote reflects on the common desire to achieve recognition or success, but it warns that without a clear vision of what that entails, one may end up in a direction that does not align with their true desires. It highlights the need for specificity in our goals and dreams, encouraging individuals to think deeply about their identity and ambitions rather than simply adhering to societal expectations.
Themes
ClarityGoalsIdentityAspirationSuccess
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about defining personal goals.
More from Lily Tomlin
All quotes →Sometimes I worry about being a success in a mediocre world.
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The road to success is always under construction.
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Ninety eight percent of the adults in this country are decent, hardworking, honest Americans. It's the other lousy two percent that get all the publicity. But then, we elected them.
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Truth is, I've always been selling out. The difference is that in the past, I looked like I had integrity because there were no buyers.
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Why is it that when we talk to God we're said to be praying but when God talks to us we're schizophrenic?
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