2011 Dartmouth College Commencement Address
Delivered on June 12, 2011, at Dartmouth College, blending sharp observational comedy with profound reflection on how disappointment and failure reshape character and lead to true self-discovery.
Full Transcript
In 2000, I was asked to give the commencement address at Harvard. I told the graduates to never be afraid to fail. Well, in 2010, I took my own advice!
There are few things more liberating than having your worst fear realized.
It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can become a catalyst for profound reinvention.
Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.
Defining Key Excerpts
"It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique."
"Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."
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