Screen credit is valuable only when it's given you. If you're in a position to give yourself credit, you don't need it.
Interpretation
True recognition is meaningful when it's acknowledged by others; self-acknowledgment diminishes that need.
In this quote, Irving Thalberg emphasizes the importance of external validation in achieving success. He suggests that when you are capable of recognizing your own achievements and giving yourself credit, the opinions and recognition of others become less significant, as self-gratification and validation can suffice in feeling successful.
In practice
In a speech about personal growth, one might use this quote to illustrate the importance of self-validation over external praise.
I have gone through a long apprenticeship. I have gone through enough of being a nobody. I have decided that when I am a star, I will be every inch and every moment the star! Everybody from the studio gateman to the highest executive will know it.
My advice for an entrepreneur just starting out is to differentiate yourself. Why are you different? What’s important about you? Why does the customer need you?
As kids we didn't complain about being poor; we talked about how rich we were going to be and made moves to get the lifestyle we aspired to by any means we could. And as soon as we had a little money, we were eager to show it.
The unique instrument to eradicate poverty and usher in prosperity is our youth.
I always knew I had something special.
For a long time, I'd work until 10 or 11. When I work, I'm on. I'm 'Magic.' I love it, but it takes a lot out of me.
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