I know it's a rare privilege, but if one can really tackle something in adult life that means that much to you, then it's more rewarding than anything I can imagine.
Interpretation
Pursuing your passions in adulthood can lead to profound fulfillment and rewards.
This quote by Andrew Wiles emphasizes the rarity and significance of finding something in adult life that you are truly passionate about. He suggests that dedicating oneself to such a pursuit can result in a sense of fulfillment and achievement that surpasses any other experiences in life, highlighting the importance of passion and commitment in achieving personal success.
In practice
During a motivational speech at a conference, you could use this quote to inspire attendees to find and pursue their true passions.
Perhaps I could best describe my experience of doing mathematics in terms of entering a dark mansion. You go into the first room and it's dark, completely dark. You stumble around, bumping into the furniture. Gradually, you learn where each piece of furniture is. And finally, after six months or so, you find the light switch and turn it on. Suddenly, it's all illuminated and you can see exactly where you were. Then you enter the next dark room.
Always try the problem that matters most to you.
The definition of a good mathematical problem is the mathematics it generates rather than the problem itself.
I won at every level - all the way since I started playing the game of basketball at nine. I've won at every level, won championships at every level. And, you know, it won't be fulfilled until I win at the highest level.
Today everyone is a star - they're all billed as 'starring' or 'also starring'. In my day, we earned that recognition.
Success as I see it is a result, not a goal.
The innovator creates a business where they are making money, even when they sleep.
I came to Paris with four écus in my pocket, and I’d have fought with anybody who told me I was in no condition to buy the Louvre.
Look at the better players of my era - Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Lee Trevino, Raymond Floyd. They had pros they worked with from time to time, but out on Tour, thousands of miles from home, each of them learned to be his own best coach. I think Tiger can do the same.
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