Skip to content

Finishers Quote by Alan Kay

“I hired finishers because I'm a good starter and a poor finisher.” quote by Alan Kay
Download Open image
“I hired finishers because I'm a good starter and a poor finisher.”

Alan Kay

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Art of Programming, 1999

The speaker admits to starting projects well but lacking persistence to finish them, highlighting a personal strength and weakness.

In simple terms: Good at starting, poor at finishing.

Key Takeaway

Develop habits to see projects through.

Themes

personal development productivity self-awareness project management

Mood

motivational pragmatic

Type

advice reflective

When to use this quote

  • software development
  • creative endeavors
  • team projects

Key Concepts

starting vs finishing habit formation self-discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can you take to improve finishing?
  • How can you balance starting energy with completion?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on starting can lead to unfinished work.

3.0 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Alan Kay

Explore all 91 Alan Kay quotes

More Finishers quotes

Browse all 24 Finishers quotes