Book Notes - John Wooden Quotes

I'll be sharing some of my favorite quotes from John Wooden's book, "Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections on and Off the Court."

“Being a role model is the most powerful form of educating. Youngsters need good models that they need critics. It is one of a parent’s greatest responsibilities and opportunities. Too often fathers neglect it because they get so caught up in making a living they forget to make a life.” (5)

“You cannot have a perfect day without helping others with no thought of getting something in return.” (10)

“So often we fail to acknowledge what we have because we’re so concerned about what we want.” (14)

“It has been said that you will be hurt occasionally if you trust too much. This may be true, but you will live in torment if you do not trust enough.” (16)

“Never believe your better than anybody else, but remember that you’re just as good as everybody else.” (16)

“I agree with Abraham Lincoln. He once said that the best thing a man can do for his children is to love their mother.” (18)

“The person you are is the person you child will become.” (21)

“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation. Character is what you really are. Reputation is what people say you are. Reputation is often based on character – but not always.” (28)

“Character is how you react to things.” (28)

“Early on I came to believe that you should learn as if you were going to live forever, and live as if you were going to die tomorrow.” (30)

“How hard you work at correcting your faults reveals you character.” (30)

“Now parents will say, 'We’re just trying to make ends meet,' and their telling the truth. But if you think too much about the pursuit of material things, you’re going to hurt those youngsters you’re working so hard to buy material things for.” (36)

“You and I must accept some accountability for future bloodshed if each and every day we don’t do something in our own way to alleviate prejudice in ourselves or others.” (37)