Define yourself Quote by Madeleine Albright
![“[When I was hired, I was urged] not to seek a clear definition of what I’d be doing because that would also make it clear what I was not supposed to do. Be careful not to define yourself out of an interesting job.” quote by Madeleine Albright](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/305/madeleine-albright-1360_define-yourself_when-i-was-hired-i-was-urged-not-to-seek_2730755.jpg)
““[When I was hired, I was urged] not to seek a clear definition of what I’d be doing because that would also make it clear what I was not supposed to do. Be careful not to define yourself out of an interesting job.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Madeleine Albright, 1995
Defining a role too narrowly limits opportunities; staying open preserves interesting work.
In simple terms: Too much definition blocks growth; stay flexible.
Key Takeaway
Keep your job definition broad.
Themes
career
flexibility
growth
Mood
thoughtful
pragmatic
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- workplace
- career planning
- job satisfaction
- innovation
Key Concepts
role ambiguity
career development
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you felt boxed in by a job title?
- How can you expand your role?
A Different Perspective
Over‑definition can stifle creativity.
