Business Quote by E.L. James
““Kate is my roommate, and she has chosen today of all days to succumb to the flu. Therefore, she cannot attend the interview she’d arranged to do, with some mega-industrialist tycoon I’ve never heard of, for the student newspaper. So I have been volunteered. I have final exams to cram for and one essay to finish, and I’m supposed to be working this afternoon, but no—today I have to drive 165 miles to downtown Seattle in order to meet the enigmatic CEO of Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc. As an exceptional entrepreneur and major benefactor of our university, his time is extraordinarily precious—much more precious than mine—but he has granted Kate an interview. A real coup, she tells me. Damn her extracurricular activities.””
About This Quote
A student is forced to juggle academic duties, a sudden travel request, and a high‑stakes interview, highlighting competing priorities and last‑minute pressure.
In simple terms: Balancing school work and unexpected obligations is stressful.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize tasks and negotiate realistic deadlines.
Themes
time management
conflict
responsibility
stress
prioritization
Mood
anxious
determined
overwhelmed
Type
situational
advice
When to use this quote
- college exam preparation
- urgent travel
- high‑profile interview
- unexpected workload
Key Concepts
opportunity cost
deadline pressure
professional etiquette
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you delegate or reschedule?
- How do you protect your well‑being under pressure?
A Different Perspective
The CEO’s time may be valuable, but the student’s health and academic obligations are also critical.
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