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No matter what my fucking last words were, please say they…

“No matter what my fucking last words were, please say they were these: 'I have always known that the pursuit of excellence is a lethal habit.” quote by John Irving
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““No matter what my fucking last words were, please say they were these: 'I have always known that the pursuit of excellence is a lethal habit.””

John Irving

About This Quote

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

Excellence can become an obsessive drive that harms well‑being, despite its allure.

In simple terms: Pursuing excellence can be dangerous.

Key Takeaway

Balance ambition with self‑care.

Themes

excellence obsession health balance career

Mood

cautionary intense

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • creative work
  • sports
  • academic pursuits
  • entrepreneurship

Key Concepts

lethal habit self‑sacrifice personal cost

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is striving for excellence always worth the cost?
  • How can one maintain health while aiming high?
A Different Perspective

The quote glorifies a harmful mindset.

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