Sam Altman Quotes

In the absence of willpower the most complete collection of virtues and talents is wholly worthless.

Next to courage, willpower is the most important thing in politics.

The No. 1 thing I am earnestly attracted to is intelligence.

Toughness doesn't have to come in a pinstripe suit.

Never forget that the key to the situation lies in the will and not in the imagination.

People do not lack strength; they lack will.

It is not by muscle, speed, or physical dexterity that great things are achieved, but by reflection, force of character, and judgment.

Continuous effort - not strength or intelligence - is the key to unlocking our potential.

I have brought myself, by long meditation, to the conviction that a human being with a settled purpose must accomplish it, and that nothing can resist a will which will stake even existence upon its fulfillment.

I took a test once; they said I was a genius.

It is a law woven into the nature of man, attested by history, by science, by literature and art, and by dally experience, that strength of mind and force of character are the supreme rulers of human affairs.

I think when there's enough will and aggression, there's no shortage of talent either.

It was character that got us out of bed, commitment that moved us into action, and discipline that enabled us to follow through.

Success in almost any field depends more on energy and drive than it does on intelligence. This explains why we have so many stupid leaders.

Dean is a very smart fellow with a huge ambition and ego to match.

What is important in a leader is a resolute will and determination. A man may be versatile and learned, but if he lacks resoluteness and determination, of what use will he be?

The force of character is cumulative.

The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.

I don't think my determination has ever put me into trouble because of this, in fact, I think it is one of my main strengths and makes me the player that I am - without it I wouldn't be the same.

I'm very strong mentally. I have a lot of character. I never give in; I always have the drive to keep going and to work hard to achieve my goals.

I think it rather fine, this necessity for the tense bracing of the will before anything worth doing can be done. I rather like it myself. I feel it is to be the chief thing that differentiates me from the cat by the fire.

Talent sets the floor, character sets the ceiling

You know, I'm, like, a smart person.

Dollars and guns are no substitutes for brains and will power.

It's a little like wrestling a gorilla. You don't quit when you're tired - you quit when the gorilla is tired.