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As the saying goes: The dream is free. The hustle is sold separately.
If every man with a dream could become a great man, the world would be filled to the brim with achievers. Unfortunately, however, a dream is not enough. Not even close. A dream remains aloft in the clouds. It’s hard work that assembles the dream into a reality, brick by brick, baby step by baby step.
Indeed, hard work can transform even mediocre people into great men. Human history is littered with men who had great ideas but lacked the drive to put them into action. It also has little shortage of men who started with nothing — not even the greatest amount of natural talent — but were able to make their dream a reality because they put the work in.
It is self-discipline that is the ultimate tool for self-actualization. Whether one seeks to take over the world or simply become a better person, self-discipline is a prerequisite. There are many aspects of our lives that we cannot control. How much work we put in, however, is one of them.
How fortunate that this can make all the difference.
What’s more, some of the greatest people to ever live understood this, intuitively if nothing else. Read the following quotes about what they have to say. Positive thinking is powerful. Positive action and self-discipline are much more so.
Quotes About Hard Work and Working Diligently
Babe Ruth
“It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.”
Babe Ruth’s quote emphasizes the resilience and determination required for success. He suggests that individuals who persistently pursue their goals, despite facing obstacles or setbacks, are difficult to surpass. Ruth’s statement reflects the importance of perseverance and tenacity in achieving one’s ambitions. It serves as an inspiration to never lose hope or relent in the face of challenges, highlighting the transformative power of unwavering commitment and relentless effort.
Vince Lombardi
“The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Work is the key to success, and hard work can help you accomplish anything.”
Vince Lombardi’s quote emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success. He highlights the notion that success is not simply handed to individuals; rather, it is earned through sustained effort and perseverance. Lombardi suggests that while success may be defined in various ways, the common denominator is the commitment to diligent work. This quote serves as a motivational reminder of the value of hard work in realizing one’s goals and aspirations, reinforcing the idea that consistent effort is the key to accomplishing anything worthwhile.
Calvin Coolidge
“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.”
Calvin Coolidge’s quote emphasizes the unparalleled importance of persistence and determination in achieving success. He dismisses the notion that talent, genius, or education alone are sufficient to guarantee success, highlighting numerous examples of individuals who possess these qualities yet fail to achieve their goals. Coolidge argues that it is persistence—the unwavering commitment to a goal despite obstacles and setbacks—that ultimately leads to triumph. This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the indomitable nature of human perseverance, underscoring its unmatched significance in realizing one’s aspirations.
Coleman Cox
“I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it.”
Coleman Cox’s quote cleverly intertwines the concepts of luck and hard work. He expresses his belief in luck while also highlighting the correlation between diligence and fortunate outcomes. Cox suggests that the more effort one invests in their endeavors, the greater their chances of encountering favorable circumstances or opportunities. This quote serves as a testament to the idea that while luck may play a role in success, it is often the result of relentless effort and perseverance. Cox’s perspective encourages individuals to remain dedicated to their goals, recognizing that hard work can enhance their likelihood of experiencing fortunate outcomes.
Grant Cardone
“The average call me obsessed; the successful call me for advice.”
Grant Cardone’s quote juxtaposes the perspectives of different groups regarding his level of dedication and commitment. He acknowledges that some may view his intense focus on his goals as obsession, implying that he may be perceived as overly zealous or single-minded by the average person. However, Cardone suggests that those who have achieved success recognize the value of his dedication, seeking his guidance and advice as a result. This quote highlights the contrast between perception and reality, underscoring the importance of persistence and determination in achieving success. It also suggests that what may be seen as excessive by some may be recognized as essential by those who have achieved their goals.
Jim Rohn
“Some people plant in the spring and leave in the summer. If you’ve signed up for a season, see it through. You don’t have to stay forever, but at least stay until you see it through.”
– Jim Rohn
Jim Rohn’s quote uses the metaphor of planting and harvesting to convey the importance of commitment and perseverance in achieving one’s goals. He suggests that like planting crops, endeavors require time, effort, and dedication to reach fruition. Rohn advises against abandoning commitments prematurely, urging individuals to see them through to completion. While acknowledging that staying indefinitely may not be necessary, he emphasizes the importance of honoring one’s commitments and seeing them through to the end. This quote serves as a reminder of the value of persistence and follow-through in achieving success and personal fulfillment.
Pablo Picasso
“Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”
Pablo Picasso’s quote encapsulates the idea that inspiration often arises from the act of engaging in creative work. He suggests that while inspiration may indeed exist, it is more likely to manifest when one is actively involved in their craft or endeavor. By emphasizing the necessity of working, Picasso highlights the role of dedication and effort in stimulating creativity and generating new ideas. This quote encourages individuals to remain committed to their creative pursuits, recognizing that inspiration is more likely to strike when they are actively immersed in their work.
Francis Crick
“It is amateurs who have one big bright beautiful idea that they can never abandon. Professionals know that they have to produce theory after theory before they are likely to hit the jackpot.”
Francis Crick’s quote distinguishes between amateurs and professionals in the realm of creativity and discovery. He suggests that amateurs often cling to a single grand idea, hoping it will lead to success, whereas professionals understand the iterative nature of innovation. Crick emphasizes that professionals recognize the need to generate multiple theories and hypotheses, understanding that each contributes to the process of discovery. This quote underscores the importance of persistence, experimentation, and continuous refinement in achieving breakthroughs and success in any field.
Arnold Schwarzenegger
“Mohammed Ali worked his butt off. I saw it first hand. I remember there was a sports writer in the gym when Ali was working out doing sit-ups. He asked Ali, “How many sit-ups do you do?”, and he said, “I don’t start counting until it hurts.” Now think about that, he doesn’t start counting sit-ups until he feels pain. That’s when he starts counting. That is working hard. So you can’t get around the hard work, it doesn’t matter who you are. Work your ass off. There is no magic pill. There is no magic out there. You can not get around, you have to work and work – it’s all hard work.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s quote reflects on the intense work ethic exemplified by Muhammad Ali and emphasizes the necessity of hard work for success. He recounts Ali’s approach to training, highlighting his willingness to push himself beyond his limits, even when it became physically challenging. Schwarzenegger uses this anecdote to underscore the importance of dedication and perseverance in achieving one’s goals. He emphasizes that hard work is an indispensable component of success, regardless of one’s talent or circumstances. This quote serves as a motivational reminder that there are no shortcuts to success, and that sustained effort and commitment are essential for achieving one’s aspirations.
Michelangelo
“If people knew how hard I had to work to gain my mastery, it would not seem so wonderful at all.”
Michelangelo’s quote provides insight into the relentless dedication and effort required to achieve mastery in one’s craft. He suggests that the true extent of his labor and sacrifice may not be fully appreciated by others, leading them to perceive his mastery as something effortless or innate. By sharing this sentiment, Michelangelo emphasizes the arduous journey and countless hours of work behind his remarkable achievements. This quote serves as a testament to the profound commitment and perseverance necessary to attain excellence in any endeavor, reminding us that mastery is the result of relentless hard work rather than mere talent or luck.
Theodore Roosevelt
“Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, difficulty…I have never in my life envied a human being who led an easy life. I have envied a great many people who led difficult lives and led them well.”
Theodore Roosevelt’s quote captures the essence of the value of hard work and resilience in achieving meaningful accomplishments. He emphasizes that true fulfillment and satisfaction come from overcoming challenges and adversity rather than from a life of ease. Roosevelt expresses admiration for those who face difficulties with courage and determination, recognizing the richness and depth that such experiences bring to one’s life. This quote serves as a reminder that the most worthwhile achievements often require effort, struggle, and perseverance, and that it is through confronting and triumphing over obstacles that we find true fulfillment and growth.
Michael Jordan
“Everybody has talent, but ability takes hard work.”
Michael Jordan’s quote underscores the distinction between talent and ability, emphasizing the importance of hard work in realizing one’s potential. He suggests that while everyone possesses innate talent or potential in some form, it is through diligent effort and dedication that this potential is transformed into tangible ability or skill. Jordan’s statement serves as a reminder that success is not solely determined by natural talent but is also contingent upon the willingness to invest time and effort into honing one’s abilities. This quote resonates with the idea that hard work is a crucial factor in achieving excellence and reaching one’s goals, regardless of innate talent.
Thomas Edison
“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”
Thomas Edison’s quote reflects on the common experience of giving up too soon in the face of failure. He suggests that many individuals abandon their pursuits just as they are on the brink of success, often unaware of how close they were to achieving their goals. Edison’s insight underscores the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of setbacks. By highlighting the potential consequences of premature surrender, he encourages individuals to persist in their endeavors, recognizing that success may be closer than they realize. This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of tenacity and determination in overcoming obstacles and ultimately achieving success.
Thomas Edison
“The three great essentials to achieve anything worthwhile are, first, hard work; second, stick-to-itiveness; third, common sense.”
Thomas Edison’s quote encapsulates the fundamental principles necessary for achieving success in any endeavor. He identifies three key essentials: hard work, stick-to-itiveness (or perseverance), and common sense. Edison suggests that diligent effort, unwavering determination, and practical reasoning are indispensable components of accomplishing anything of value. By emphasizing these essentials, he highlights the importance of consistent effort, resilience in the face of challenges, and practical problem-solving skills. This quote serves as a timeless reminder of the fundamental attributes required to attain meaningful goals and objectives.
Frederick Douglass
“Allowing only ordinary ability and opportunity, we may explain success mainly by one word and that word is WORK! WORK!! WORK!!! WORK!!!! Not transient and fitful effort, but patient, enduring, honest, unremitting and indefatigable work into which the whole heart is put… There is no royal road to perfection.”
Frederick Douglass’s quote emphasizes the paramount importance of hard work and diligence in achieving success. He stresses that genuine accomplishment stems from consistent and dedicated effort rather than fleeting attempts. Douglass underscores the significance of sustained, honest, and wholehearted labor, describing it as patient, enduring, and unremitting. His words reflect the belief that success is not merely a product of talent or luck but is instead earned through persistent and unwavering commitment. Douglass’s message serves as a reminder that there are no shortcuts to excellence, and true achievement requires steadfast determination and tireless work ethic.
Elon Musk
“No matter how hard you work, someone else is working harder.”
Elon Musk’s quote encapsulates the relentless drive and competitive spirit that characterize his approach to work and success. He acknowledges the inherent challenge of striving for excellence in a world where others are equally dedicated and committed. Musk’s statement serves as a reminder of the fierce competition and continuous pursuit of improvement that define high achievers. It underscores the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic and constantly pushing oneself to do better, regardless of external circumstances. This quote reflects Musk’s philosophy of relentless ambition and the recognition that success often requires surpassing the efforts of others.
Frank Lloyd Wright
“I know the price of success: dedication, hard work and an unremitting devotion to the things you want to see happen.”
Frank Lloyd Wright’s quote emphasizes the personal sacrifices and unwavering commitment necessary for achieving success. He articulates that true success demands dedication, hard work, and an unwavering focus on one’s goals. Wright underscores the importance of persistence and perseverance in pursuing one’s ambitions. His words reflect the belief that success is not attained easily but requires a steadfast devotion to bringing one’s aspirations to fruition. This quote serves as a reminder that success is often the result of disciplined effort and a relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.
Elon Musk
“If you need encouragement, don’t become an entrepreneur.”
Elon Musk’s quote encapsulates the harsh reality of entrepreneurship, highlighting the immense challenges and obstacles that entrepreneurs face. He suggests that if one requires external encouragement or validation to pursue entrepreneurship, then they may not be adequately prepared for the demanding journey ahead. Musk’s statement reflects the resilience and self-reliance required to navigate the uncertainties and setbacks inherent in entrepreneurial ventures. It underscores the importance of self-motivation, determination, and belief in one’s vision to succeed in the competitive world of entrepreneurship. Overall, the quote serves as a sobering reminder of the arduous path that entrepreneurs must tread and the need for unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.
Naval Ravikant
“Your real resume is just a cataloging of all your suffering.”
Naval Ravikant’s quote offers a unique perspective on the concept of a resume, suggesting that one’s true qualifications are reflected not in conventional achievements, but in the challenges and hardships they have endured. He implies that the experiences of suffering and overcoming adversity are what shape individuals and define their character. Ravikant’s statement encourages introspection and a reevaluation of the traditional notion of success, emphasizing the importance of resilience and personal growth in the face of life’s trials. It prompts individuals to recognize the value of their struggles as integral components of their journey and as indicators of their ability to persevere in the face of adversity. Overall, the quote invites reflection on the deeper aspects of personal development and the role of hardship in shaping one’s identity.
Sam Altman
“Extreme people get extreme results.”
Sam Altman’s quote emphasizes the correlation between intensity of effort and the outcomes achieved. By characterizing individuals who are willing to push the boundaries as “extreme,” Altman suggests that those who demonstrate exceptional dedication and determination are more likely to attain significant results. The quote underscores the notion that extraordinary achievements often require a corresponding level of commitment and intensity. Altman’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of pushing beyond conventional limits and embracing a mindset of relentless pursuit in order to realize exceptional success.