Being smart Quote by Guy Kawasaki
“Try stuff. I also used to believe that it's better to be smart than lucky because if you're smart you can out-think the competition. I don't believe that anymore-this is not to say that you should strive for a high level of stupidity. My point is that luck is a big part of many successes, so (a) don't get too bummed out when you see a bozo succeed; and (b) luck favors the people who try stuff, not simply think and analyze. As the Chinese say, "One must wait for a long time with your mouth open before a Peking duck flies in your mouth."”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on entrepreneurship, 2015
Success depends more on taking action and embracing chance than solely on intellect; effort creates opportunities that luck can exploit.
In simple terms: Luck matters more than pure smarts.
Key Takeaway
Take action, don’t over‑think.
Themes
action
luck
entrepreneurship
risk
mindset
Mood
optimistic
pragmatic
Type
advice
motivational
When to use this quote
- starting a business
- job hunting
- creative projects
- networking
- skill development
Key Concepts
probability
initiative
serendipity
behavioral economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance preparation with openness to chance?
- What small actions could increase your luck?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on luck can excuse lack of preparation or effort.
