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With each new day in Africa, a gazelle wakes up knowing he must outrun the fastest lion or perish. At the same time, a lion stirs and stretches, knowing he must outrun the fastest gazelle or starve. It's no different for the human race. Whether you consider yourself a gazelle or a lion, you have to run faster than others to survive.
Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
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Interpretation

What this quote means

In life, both the strong and the weak must continuously strive to outpace their competitors to succeed.

This quote illustrates the relentless nature of survival, whether in the animal kingdom or among humans. It emphasizes that both the gazelle and the lion must push themselves daily— the gazelle to escape predation and the lion to secure its next meal. This metaphor extends to human existence, highlighting that success often requires individuals to be proactive and competitive in their pursuits, reminding us that regardless of our status, the pressure to improve and excel is universal.

Themes

SurvivalCompetitionMotivationSuccessStrive

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used as a motivational opener in a leadership seminar.

More from Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Most people talk; we do things. They plan; we achieve. They hesitate; we move ahead. We are living proof that when human beings have the courage and commitment to transform a dream into reality, there is nothing that can stop them.
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There is no Dubai and Abu Dhabi; we are one. Whoever doesn't understand this should do their homework before they start talking. We will be there for each other when we need it.
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The race for excellence has no finish line.
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