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Striving is exhausting. Sometimes I do say things like, 'I…

“Striving is exhausting. Sometimes I do say things like, 'I wish I were not quite this driven to be excellent.' It's not a comfortable life. It's not relaxed. I'm not relaxed as a person. I mean, I'm not unhappy. But... it's the opposite of being comfortable.” quote by Angela Duckworth
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“Striving is exhausting. Sometimes I do say things like, 'I wish I were not quite this driven to be excellent.' It's not a comfortable life. It's not relaxed. I'm not relaxed as a person. I mean, I'm not unhappy. But... it's the opposite of being comfortable.”

Angela Duckworth

About This Quote

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

She acknowledges that relentless drive for excellence can feel uncomfortable and exhausting, yet it isn’t unhappiness.

In simple terms: Being driven can be tiring and uneasy, but not necessarily unhappy.

Key Takeaway

Balance ambition with rest to sustain motivation.

Themes

ambition exhaustion comfort mental health

Mood

thoughtful determined

Type

motivational reflective

When to use this quote

  • career projects
  • creative pursuits
  • personal goals

Key Concepts

perseverance self‑awareness well‑being

Questions to Reflect On

  • What small habit could you add to increase relaxation?
  • How does your drive affect your relationships?
A Different Perspective

Constant pressure may lead to burnout if not managed.

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