“Gentleness doesn’t get work done unless you happen to be a hen laying eggs.”
- August 19, 1883 – January 10, 1971
- Born in France
- Designer, businesswoman
- Founded the Chanel brand and advocated modern and simple fashion, especially popularizing the “Chanel suit” and “little black dress,” and contributing to the liberation of women.
Quote
“Gentleness doesn’t get work done unless you happen to be a hen laying eggs.”
Explanation
In this quote, Coco Chanel offers a sharp critique of passivity in the context of work and achievement. She contrasts gentleness, often associated with being soft, nurturing, and patient, with the more active, decisive energy required to accomplish things. Chanel’s words suggest that while gentleness may be important in certain contexts, it is not sufficient on its own when it comes to achieving goals or making progress. The reference to a hen laying eggs is an ironic one—suggesting that even a hen, a symbol of femininity and gentleness, is only able to produce something because of a biological necessity, not because of a soft or passive approach to work. The underlying message is that to get things done, one needs more than just gentleness; it requires drive, determination, and often a more assertive or pragmatic approach.
Chanel herself embodied this philosophy, as her life and career were marked by strength, independence, and an unwavering commitment to her vision. Despite the delicate and sophisticated nature of her fashion designs, she was known for being resolute and tough-minded in business, navigating a male-dominated industry with remarkable assertiveness and ambition. Chanel’s career shows that success in a competitive world requires more than just charm or softness—it requires the ability to make bold decisions, work tirelessly, and challenge norms when necessary.
In modern society, Chanel’s words are particularly relevant in the context of professional and personal growth. While gentleness and empathy are valuable traits, they need to be balanced with a sense of purpose and action to achieve meaningful results. In an age where there is often pressure to be both compassionate and productive, Chanel’s quote serves as a reminder that achieving success—whether in business, creativity, or personal goals—requires a pragmatic approach and the ability to take decisive action. Gentleness alone, while valuable in certain relationships, is not always enough to propel us forward in the face of challenges.
