The problem with taking offense is that it's really hard to figure out what to do with it after you're done using it. Better to just leave it on the table and walk away. Umbrage untaken quietly disappears.
Seth GodinRead
If you've got the platform and the ability to make a difference, then this goes beyond 'should' and reaches the level of 'must.' You must make a difference or you squander the opportunity. Wasting the opportunity both degrades your own ability to contribute and, more urgently, takes something away from the rest of us.
Interpretation
What this quote means
You have a responsibility to use your abilities to help others and make a positive impact.
This quote emphasizes the importance of leveraging one's platform and abilities to create meaningful change. When individuals have the means to make a difference, it becomes an obligation rather than a choice; neglecting this responsibility not only undermines their own potential but also affects others who could benefit from their contributions. The quote encourages proactive engagement in social issues and underscores the collective benefits of individual action.
Themes
ResponsibilityImpactChangeOpportunityContribution
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech at a charity event, I could use this quote to inspire others to engage in community service.
More from Seth Godin
All quotes →Not adding value is the same as taking it away.
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Excellence isn’t about meeting the spec, it’s about setting the spec. It defines what the consumer sees as quality right this minute, and tomorrow, if you’re good, you’ll reset that expectation again
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Living with doubt ... is almost always more profitable than living with certainty. _x000D_ People don't like doubt, so they pay money and give up opportunities to avoid it. _x000D_ Entrepreneurshi p is largely about living with doubt. If you need reassurance, you're giving up quite a bit to get it. On the other hand, if you can get in the habit of seeking out uncertainty, you'll have developed a great instinct.
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The danger of the Web is that you can go from idea to public announcement in under ten minutes.
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Art isn't only a painting. Art is anything that is creative, passionate and personal. Art is the unique work of a human being created to touch another. Art is created to have an impact, to change someone else.
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