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About this quote

What does it mean?
The world does not owe anyone success; individuals must create their own opportunities.
In plain terms
No one owes you a job or money; you must earn it yourself.
What can you take from it?
Take responsibility for your own success instead of expecting handouts.

Where it applies

  • career planning
  • financial independence
  • motivational talks

Putting it to work

  • develop skills
  • create opportunities

Questions to consider

  • What can you control?
  • How do you define success?

Another view

Some people face systemic barriers beyond their control.

More from Mark Twain

  1. America is built on a tilt and everything loose slides to California.

    Permalink to quote #165
  2. Every generalization is false, including this one.

    Permalink to quote #167
  3. All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence; then success is sure.

    Permalink to quote #164

Related quotes

  1. Don't go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first.

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  2. Every fat must stand upon his bottom.

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  3. A man, as a general rule, owes very little to what he is born with - a man is what he makes of himself.

    Alexander Graham BellAlexander Graham Bell quote #15