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A motto I've adopted is, if at first you don't succeed…

“A motto I've adopted is, if at first you don't succeed, hide all evidence that you ever tried.” quote by Billy Collins
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“A motto I've adopted is, if at first you don't succeed, hide all evidence that you ever tried.”

Billy Collins

About This Quote

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

If initial attempts fail, conceal evidence of trying to avoid embarrassment.

In simple terms: Hide failures to protect ego.

Key Takeaway

Embrace transparency and learn from mistakes.

Themes

humor failure ego resilience

Mood

wry reflective

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal projects
  • creative writing
  • career setbacks
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

self‑deception social perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why hide evidence of failure?
  • What benefits come from admitting mistakes?
A Different Perspective

Concealing failure can prevent growth and trust.

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