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Goals Quote by Martin Linsky

“Having purpose differs from having any particular purpose. You get meaning in life from the purposes that you join. But after working in a particular discipline, industry, or job for twenty or thirty or forty years, you begin to be wedded to that specific purpose, that particular form.” quote by Martin Linsky
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““Having purpose differs from having any particular purpose. You get meaning in life from the purposes that you join. But after working in a particular discipline, industry, or job for twenty or thirty or forty years, you begin to be wedded to that specific purpose, that particular form.””

Martin Linsky

About This Quote

Source Book: “The Leadership Challenge”, 2010 (chapter on purpose)

Purpose evolves; joining broader causes gives meaning, but long‑term attachment to a specific purpose can limit growth.

In simple terms: Purpose is fluid.

Key Takeaway

Seek broader purpose.

Themes

purpose meaning career growth attachment

Mood

reflective pragmatic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career transitions
  • volunteering
  • retirement planning
  • personal development

Key Concepts

existentialism organizational behavior lifelong learning

Questions to Reflect On

  • When did you feel stuck in a purpose?
  • How can you stay adaptable?
A Different Perspective

Over‑attachment can cause stagnation.

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