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About this quote

What does it mean?
Astaire prefers to leave while still appreciated rather than wait to be seen as outdated.
In plain terms
I want to retire while people still think I'm great.
What can you take from it?
Leaving on a high note preserves legacy.

Where it applies

  • planning retirement
  • managing public image
  • career decisions

Putting it to work

  • plan exit strategy
  • value reputation
  • act decisively

Questions to consider

  • When should you leave a career?
  • How do you want to be remembered?

Another view

Timing a public exit is difficult and subjective.

More from Fred Astaire

  1. Either the camera will dance, or I will

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  2. A four wood I hit on the 13th hole at Bel Air Country Club in June of 1945. It landed right on the green and rolled into the cup for a hole in one

    Permalink to quote #7
  3. I don't make love by kissing, I make love by dancing.

    Permalink to quote #4

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