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Even as a kid in drawing class, I had real ambition. I…

“Even as a kid in drawing class, I had real ambition. I wanted to be the best in the class, but there was always some other feller who was better; so I thought, 'It can't be about being the best, it has to be about the drawing itself, what you do with it.' That's kind of stuck with me.” quote by Damien Hirst
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“Even as a kid in drawing class, I had real ambition. I wanted to be the best in the class, but there was always some other feller who was better; so I thought, 'It can't be about being the best, it has to be about the drawing itself, what you do with it.' That's kind of stuck with me.”

Damien Hirst

About This Quote

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

The speaker learned early that personal fulfillment comes from focusing on the process and craft, not on outshining others.

In simple terms: Shift focus from competition to creation.

Key Takeaway

Value the act of drawing over ranking.

Themes

self-improvement process orientation intrinsic motivation humility growth mindset

Mood

reflective inspired

Type

personal anecdote lesson

When to use this quote

  • art class
  • personal development
  • creative pursuits

Key Concepts

competition artistic practice

Practical Applications

  • teaching art
  • self‑coaching

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does focusing on the process change your satisfaction?
  • What habits help keep attention on the work itself?
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