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The minute you get away from fundamentals – whether its proper technique, work ethic or mental preparation – the bottom can fall out of your game, your schoolwork, your job, whatever you’re doing.
Michael Jordan
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Neglecting foundational principles can lead to failure in any pursuit.

Michael Jordan emphasizes the importance of adhering to fundamental principles in any area of life, including sports, academics, and careers. He warns that deviating from essential techniques, work ethics, or mental readiness can cause one to fail spectacularly in their endeavors.

Themes

FundamentalsSuccessTechniquePreparationWork Ethic

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech to a youth sports team about the importance of mastering the basics.

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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Quote by Michael Jordan | QuoteProject