---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: I started to get my doctorate, not to be…"
description: "\"I started to get my doctorate, not to be called 'doctor.' Those are just little things you get to get recognition.\" — John Kani"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/171/john-kani-7300_doctor_i-started-to-get-my-doctorate-not-to-be_871990.jpg"
---

#  I started to get my doctorate, not to be called 'doctor.'…

![“I started to get my doctorate, not to be called 'doctor.' Those are just little things you get to get recognition.” quote by John Kani](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/171/john-kani-7300_doctor_i-started-to-get-my-doctorate-not-to-be_871990.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/171/john-kani-7300_doctor_i-started-to-get-my-doctorate-not-to-be_871990.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/171/john-kani-7300_doctor_i-started-to-get-my-doctorate-not-to-be_871990.jpg)

> “I started to get my doctorate, not to be called 'doctor.' Those are just little things you get to get recognition.”

[John Kani](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/john-kani/)

## About This Quote

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

The individual pursues a doctorate for personal fulfillment, not for the title, viewing formal recognition as a minor incentive.

**In simple terms:** Doctorate sought for learning, not the title.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize learning over status.

Themes

education motivation identity recognition

Mood

thoughtful determined

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

- Graduate school
- career advancement
- personal development
- mentorship

Key Concepts

Intrinsic motivation self‑actualization academic culture

Questions to Reflect On

- What drives you beyond external labels?
- How do you balance humility with achievement?

A Different Perspective

Titles can still influence perception and opportunity.

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[Doctor](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/doctor/) [Doctorate](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/doctorate/) [Little things](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/little-things/) [Medicine](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/medicine/) [Psychology](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/psychology/) [Recognition](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/recognition/)

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