You know, you do need mentors, but in the end, you really just need to believe in yourself.
Years ago I wanted to buy an apartment in New York City. I was a single female - I had gone through my divorce - I had three children, I was in show business and black. It was, like, impossible.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote illustrates the challenges faced by a determined individual striving for success despite personal and societal obstacles.
Diana Ross reflects on her past struggle to purchase an apartment in New York City while juggling the responsibilities of being a single mother of three, navigating the entertainment industry, and confronting the difficulties associated with her identity as a black female. Her experience highlights the intersection of multiple challenges that can make achieving personal goals seem impossible, yet also showcases her resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could inspire young women pursuing careers in challenging environments.
More from Diana Ross
All quotes →I was looking at making a shift in my career. I've been so blessed I'd like to be able to give that back. If I could find young artists, young performers I can nurture to have a career I would really like that.
You can't just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You've got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.
I don't have to sit around and wait for the next movie to come along, I can go out and sing.
With the Supremes I made so much money so fast all I wanted to do was buy clothes and pretty things. Now I'm comfortable with money and it's comfortable with me.
My children come first and the career comes in around that.
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No man becomes rich unless he enriches others.
It is necessary to prepare and to plan so that we don’t fritter away our lives. Without a goal, there can be no real success. One of the best definitions of success I have ever heard goes something like this: success is the progressive realization of a worthy ideal. Someone has said the trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never cross the goal line.
Success isn't always about greatness. It's about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.
Usually, a model gets two to three seasons, or a year and a half, and that's it - you're done. For me, it will be 10 years.
Don't feel entitled to anything you didn't sweat and struggle for.
Fame doesn't fulfill you. It warms you a bit, but that warmth is temporary.