The future rewards those who press on. I don’t have time to feel sorry for myself. I don’t have time to complain. I’m going to press on.

What's the meaning of this quote?

Quote Meaning: This quote, attributed to former U.S. President Barack Obama, is a call to action and a statement of determination in the face of adversity. By saying that "the future rewards those who press on," Obama is suggesting that success and achievement come to those who persist, even when faced with challenges or setbacks. He goes on to explain that he doesn't have time for self-pity or complaint, indicating that dwelling on negative emotions only slows down progress towards goals. Finally, by stating that he is going to "press on," Obama is emphasizing the importance of perseverance and a can-do attitude in achieving one's objectives. Overall, this quote is a reminder to stay focused, stay positive, and keep pushing forward towards one's goals, no matter what obstacles may arise.

Who said the quote?

The quote "The future rewards those who press on. I don't have time to feel sorry for myself. I don't have time to complain. I'm going to press on." was said by Barack Obama (Bio / Quotes). Barack Obama is an American politician who served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017.

ELEVATE
Free Resource: A step-by-step blueprint to realize your dreams

What's the quote's message?

This quote encapsulates a powerful message of determination, resilience, and a refusal to be defeated by self-pity or negativity. It emphasizes that success and fulfillment in the future are reserved for those who persevere, pushing forward despite challenges or setbacks.

The quote reflects a mindset of proactive optimism and personal responsibility. It acknowledges that dwelling on self-pity or complaining about circumstances consumes valuable time and energy that could be better utilized in productive pursuits. It encourages us to rise above self-pity, negativity, and complaining, and instead choose to press on with determination and focus.

By rejecting self-pity and complaint, we free ourselves from the limitations they impose. We create space for growth, learning, and progress. The quote invites us to take control of our own lives, recognizing that our attitude and actions are key factors in shaping our future.

The underlying message of the quote is one of empowerment. It asserts that we have the agency to shape our own destinies, and the future holds rewards for those who refuse to be held back by self-doubt or negativity. It urges us to channel our energy into productive endeavors, to keep moving forward, and to seize opportunities as they arise.

In a world where challenges and obstacles are inevitable, this quote serves as a reminder of the power we have to overcome adversity and create a better future for ourselves. It encourages us to adopt a mindset of resilience, focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems, and persevere with unwavering determination. By pressing on with a positive and proactive attitude, we pave the way for success, growth, and a brighter future.

Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?

In the early 20th century, a remarkable woman named Amelia Earhart shattered gender barriers and soared to new heights as an aviator. Her tenacity and determination serve as a powerful example of pressing on despite the obstacles encountered along the way.

Amelia Earhart faced numerous challenges as a female pilot in a predominantly male-dominated field. However, she refused to let societal norms define her capabilities or limit her aspirations. With an unwavering spirit, she set out to break records and push the boundaries of aviation.

Earhart once said, "The future rewards those who press on. I don't have time to feel sorry for myself. I don't have time to complain. I'm going to press on." She embraced a mindset of relentless perseverance and focused on her goals rather than dwelling on self-pity or obstacles.

In 1932, Earhart achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Her determination and courage inspired countless individuals, especially women, to pursue their dreams and challenge societal expectations.

Tragically, Amelia Earhart disappeared in 1937 during an attempt to circumnavigate the globe. While her fate remains a mystery, her legacy endures as a symbol of courage, adventure, and resilience.

Amelia Earhart's story reminds us that the future belongs to those who refuse to be deterred by setbacks or self-doubt. By pressing on, even in the face of adversity, we open ourselves up to new opportunities and the possibility of achieving remarkable feats.

Her unwavering spirit serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that our actions today shape the course of our future. Earhart's story continues to inspire individuals around the world to press on, embrace challenges, and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.

ELEVATE
Free Resource: Over 1000 smart goal ideas to inspire your life
Reading is Smart. Applying is Smarter:  Apply

Chief Editor

Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.

 
Actualize Your Potential
Get my simplified process for realizing dreams (The exact process that enabled me to achieve 100 life goals in 10 years)
GET IT FREE:
Access my Start With WHY workbook for free, designed to guide you toward your purpose and the person you are meant to become
expert_advice
Align With Your Why
Elevate In Your Inbox
Get actionable insights, best practices, and wisdom you can apply — No hype, No fluff. Just practical ideas that might change your life.

Read The Art of Fully Living

There's no going back-once you embark on the journey you're meant to live, it's impossible to settle for anything less than your dreams.

Click here to learn more

Set Better Goals

Learn a better and smarter approach to setting and achieving goals. It's not just about what you want to achieve, but who you must become in the process.

Click here to learn more
Take The Free Test
Discover your areas for growth in just 5 minutes. Take the FREE self-evaluation test and pinpoint where to focus your efforts

Uplevel Your Game

Explore The Roadmaps

Access a self-paced online roadmap that turns big goals into realities, complete with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices from the world's best minds
Reclaim your freedom, escape 9-5, and live the life you were meant to live — A self-paced roadmap with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices
Join The Accelerator
Join a 10-week, personalized immersion that will accelerate your goal-attainment, elevate you to your next level, and turn your big dreams into reality.
Learn More
Contact
Thanks for reading. It makes a difference. A portion of all proceeds from our endeavors supports entrepreneurs in the developing world. View Impact...