I don’t know the word ‘quit.’ Either I never did, or I have abolished it. Susan Butcher

She’s not being literal, but rather exaggerating to make a point. There comes a time in everyone’s life where the idea of just throwing in the towel is attractive. You’re exhausted. The obstacles feel insurmountable. But those who can reject the idea of quitting and tap an unforeseen reservoir are usually those who cross the finish line.

I owe my success to having listened respectfully to the very best advice, and then going away and doing the exact opposite. G.K. Chesterton

Chesterton, a writer of paradoxical stories, is the contrarian on our list. He speaks for the pig-headed and visionary alike. Sometimes one must buck the conventional wisdom. The hard part is knowing whether you’re acting out of conviction for your ideals or if you’re just being deluded by ego.