You know, you do need mentors, but in the end, you really just need to believe in yourself.
Years ago I wanted to buy an apartment in New York City. I was a single female - I had gone through my divorce - I had three children, I was in show business and black. It was, like, impossible.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote illustrates the challenges faced by a determined individual striving for success despite personal and societal obstacles.
Diana Ross reflects on her past struggle to purchase an apartment in New York City while juggling the responsibilities of being a single mother of three, navigating the entertainment industry, and confronting the difficulties associated with her identity as a black female. Her experience highlights the intersection of multiple challenges that can make achieving personal goals seem impossible, yet also showcases her resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could inspire young women pursuing careers in challenging environments.
More from Diana Ross
All quotes →I was looking at making a shift in my career. I've been so blessed I'd like to be able to give that back. If I could find young artists, young performers I can nurture to have a career I would really like that.
You can't just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You've got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.
I don't have to sit around and wait for the next movie to come along, I can go out and sing.
With the Supremes I made so much money so fast all I wanted to do was buy clothes and pretty things. Now I'm comfortable with money and it's comfortable with me.
My children come first and the career comes in around that.
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I do think that the success, although still not complete... in the recognition of equal rights... to all Americans, regardless of color, creed and so forth, was also one of the best stories we've had to report.
I'm sure not afraid of success and I've learned not to be afraid of failure. The only thing I'm afraid of now is of being someone I don't like much.
Let's face it, we're not about to earn our way to wealth. That's a mistake millions of Americans make. We think that if we work harder, smarter, longer, we'll achieve our financial dreams, but our paycheck alone-no matter how big-isn't the answer.
These three things-work, will, success-fill human existences. Will opens the door to success, both brilliant and happy. Work passes these doors, and at the end of the journey success comes in to crown one's efforts.
I've become absolutely convinced that the seminal difference between successful companies and mediocre or unsuccessful ones has little, if anything, to do with what they know or how smart they are; it has everything to do with how healthy they are.
No great achievement is possible without persistent work.