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About this quote

What does it mean?
A rhetorical question implying that certain opportunities or moments are unique and cannot be repeated.
In plain terms
Some chances happen only once.
What can you take from it?
Recognize unique opportunities when they arise.

Where it applies

  • career decisions
  • political windows
  • personal choices

Putting it to work

  • Act on time-sensitive opportunities
  • Acknowledge one-time chances

Questions to consider

  • When do chances expire?
  • How do you know a moment is unique?

Another view

Not all situations are truly unique; some can be improved later.

More from Paul Keating

  1. I'd put him in the same class as the rest of them: mediocrity.

    Permalink to quote #37
  2. I suppose that the honourable gentleman's hair, like his intellect, will recede into the darkness.

    Permalink to quote #39
  3. (His performance) is like being flogged with a warm lettuce.

    Permalink to quote #36

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