Being successful Quote by William S. Burroughs
“Build a good name. Keep your name clean. Don't make compromises. Don't worry about making a bunch of money or being successful. Be concerned with doing good work ... and if you can build a good name, eventually that name will be its own currency.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Paris Review, 1975
Cultivating a solid reputation through integrity and quality work creates lasting value that can become a personal asset, outweighing immediate financial gain.
In simple terms: Good reputation becomes valuable currency.
Focus on integrity over short‑term profit.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- professional development
- entrepreneurship
- personal ethics
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one balance ethical work with financial needs?
- What steps build a trustworthy reputation?
Building a name takes time and may not yield immediate rewards.