This is the moment — this is the most important moment right now. Which is: We are about contribution. That’s what our job is. It’s not about impressing people. It’s not about getting the next job. It’s about contributing something.

Life is revealed as a place to contribute and we as contributors. Not because we have done a measurable amount of good, but because that is the story we tell.

How often do we stand convinced of the truth of our early memories, forgetting that they are assessments made by a child? We can replace the narratives that hold us back by inventing wiser stories, free from childish fears, and, in doing so, disperse long-held psychological stumbling blocks.

Throw yourself into life as someone who makes a difference, accepting that you may not understand how or why.

Look at their eyes. If their eyes are shining, you know you're doing it.

Everybody loves classical music they just don't know about it yet.

The major difference between the 'best' and the 'average' is that the 'best' get as much pleasure from practice as performance.