I believe that people should take pride in what they do, even if it is scorned or misunderstood by the public at large.
Interpretation
Take pride in your work, regardless of others' opinions.
This quote emphasizes the importance of personal pride and integrity in one's work and actions. It suggests that external validation is not necessary for self-worth and that individuals should find value in their own efforts, even if those efforts are not recognized or appreciated by society.
In practice
In a motivational speech addressing young artists, this quote can inspire creativity and self-acceptance.
The pro skaters I know are responsible members of society. Many of them are fathers, homeowners, world travelers and successful entrepreneurs. Their hairdos and tattoos are simply part of our culture, even when they raise eyebrows during PTA meetings.
If I can stand up when I'm 80, I'll be happy to cruise around on a skateboard. If I feel like my skills are fading, I just won't do it publicly.
When I started skating, it was such a small community. You didn't aspire to be rich or famous or make a career out of it because that wasn't something anyone had done yet.
I consider skateboarding an art form, a lifestyle and a sport. 'Action sport' would be the least offensive categorization.
My definition of success is doing what you love. I feel many people do things because they feel they have to, and are hesitant to risk following their passion.
Skateistan's not just about skating. It’s giving people life skills and hope for the future.
Intense concentration for hour after hour can bring out resources in people that they didn't know they had.
I work hard for the audience. It's entertainment. I don't need validation.
The greater the difficulty, the greater the glory.
Remember, if you do the things you ought to do when you ought to do them, then someday you can do the things you want to do when you want to do them…Whatever you do or dream you can do—begin it. Boldness has genius and power and magic in it.
Pessimism never won any battle.
I don't think it's a Western thing to really talk about intrinsic motivation and the drive for autonomy, mastery and purpose. You have to not be struggling for survival. For people who don't know where their next meal is coming, notions of finding inner motivation are comical.
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