Today's headlines and history's judgment are rarely the same.
Condoleezza RiceRead
When I talk to students - and I still think of myself more than anything as a kind of professor on leave - they say, 'Well, how do I get to do what you do?'... And I say, 'Well, you have to start out by being a failed piano major.' And my point to them is don't try to have a 10-year plan. Find the next thing that interests you and follow that.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Success often comes from unexpected paths, and it's important to pursue your interests rather than follow a rigid plan.
In this quote, Condoleezza Rice shares her perspective on the journey to success, emphasizing the importance of following one's interests rather than adhering to a strict, long-term plan. She reflects on her own experiences and suggests that many people may start on one path only to discover new passions that lead them to fulfilling careers. The essence of her message is to remain open to exploration and adaptability, as these qualities can ultimately lead to a more rewarding professional life.
Themes
SuccessInterestsJourneyEducationPursuit
In practice
Example use cases
Inspiring students during a commencement speech.
More from Condoleezza Rice
All quotes →I think my father thought I might be president of the United States. I think he would've been satisfied with secretary of state. I'm a foreign policy person and to have a chance to serve my country as the nation's chief diplomat at a time of peril and consequence, that was enough.
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What the United States has done is to be open to people who are fleeing tyranny, who are fleeing danger, but we have done it in a very careful way that has worked for us.
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For the United States, supporting international development is more than just an expression of our compassion. It is a vital investment in the free, prosperous, and peaceful international order that fundamentally serves our national interest.
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Today's headlines and history's judgment are rarely the same. If you are too attentive to the former, you will most certainly not do the hard work of securing the latter.
Condoleezza RiceRead
Does anybody think these people were just sitting around drinking tea?
Condoleezza RiceRead
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