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What I want to argue for is not that we should give up on…

“What I want to argue for is not that we should give up on our ideas of success, but that we should make sure that they are our own. We should focus in on our ideas and make sure that we own them, that we're truly the authors of our own ambitions. Because it's bad enough not getting what you want…” quote by Alain de Botton
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“What I want to argue for is not that we should give up on our ideas of success, but that we should make sure that they are our own. We should focus in on our ideas and make sure that we own them, that we're truly the authors of our own ambitions. Because it's bad enough not getting what you want, but it's even worse to have an idea of what it is you want and find out at the end of the journey that it isn't, in fact, what you wanted all along.”

Alain de Botton

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Success should be defined by personal values, not external expectations; true fulfillment comes from owning one’s ambitions.

In simple terms: Define success yourself.

Key Takeaway

Own your ambitions.

Themes

self‑definition authenticity success personal growth

Mood

reflective determined

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • relationship goals
  • creative projects
  • life decisions

Key Concepts

existentialism self‑actualization values

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines success for you?
  • How do you ensure your goals remain authentic?
A Different Perspective

External pressures can still influence self‑perception despite conscious effort.

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