John Rockefeller Quotes on Motivational

About John Rockefeller

A pioneering businessman and philanthropist who founded Standard Oil in 1870. He became the richest American of his time, controlling 90% of U.S. oil. After retirement, he focused on philanthropy, funding education, medicine, and science. He established key institutions and helped define modern charitable foundations.

Books Written By John Rockefeller
  • Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.

Quote

Don't be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.

—  John Rockefeller

Insight

Achieving exceptional success requires the courage to leave a comfortable and secure situation in pursuit of a much higher, but less certain, reward.

Actionable Takeaways

  • Evaluate one major area of your life (career, location, relationship) that is "good" and ask if its comfort is preventing you from pursuing something truly exceptional.
  • When faced with a new opportunity, consciously weigh the potential for greatness against the fear of losing your current "good" situation.
  • Practice letting go of smaller "good" things, like a familiar but unchallenging project, to create the capacity and courage to aim for something "great."