Ambition Quote by George Saunders
““Do all the other things, of course, the ambitious things — travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers (after first having them tested for monkey poop) — but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness. Do those things that incline you towards the big questions, and avoid the things that would reduce you and make you trivial. That luminous part of you that exists beyond personality — your soul, if you will — is as bright and shining as any that has ever been. Bright as Shakespeare’s, bright as Gandhi’s, bright as Mother Teresa’s. Clear away everything that keeps you separate from this secret, luminous place. Believe that it exists, come to know it better, nurture it, share its fruits timelessly.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, 2020, public talk on ambition and kindness
Encourages pursuing ambitious goals while prioritizing kindness and nurturing one's deeper, luminous self
In simple terms: Pursue big dreams but stay kind and connect with your inner soul
Key Takeaway
Balance ambition with compassion
Themes
ambition
kindness
self‑growth
purpose
spirituality
Mood
inspirational
reflective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- creative projects
- relationships
- personal development
- philanthropy
Key Concepts
humanism
authenticity
inner illumination
Questions to Reflect On
- What does your 'luminous part' look like?
- How can you embed kindness in daily ambitious actions?
A Different Perspective
Kindness can be sidelined by competitive pressures
