“In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.”
- October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962
- American
- First Lady of the United States, Diplomat, Human Rights Advocate, Chair of the UN Human Rights Commission
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Quote
“In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.”
Explanation
In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt emphasizes the lifelong nature of personal growth and accountability, reminding us that we are the architects of our own lives. The phrase “we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves” reflects the idea that identity is not fixed, but continually formed through our decisions, habits, and values. This process, she stresses, continues throughout life, making each moment a new opportunity for change and self-definition.
Roosevelt’s life reflected this principle—marked by transformation, reflection, and a constant push toward greater purpose. She grew from a shy, reserved young woman into a bold advocate for human rights, all through conscious effort and moral determination. Her statement that “the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility” reinforces her belief in personal agency: no matter the circumstances, we are accountable for our actions and the people we become.
In the modern age of shifting identities and external pressures, this quote is a call to own one’s journey. It reminds us that blame, excuses, or passivity cannot substitute for intentional living. Roosevelt challenges each of us to engage in the continuous work of shaping a meaningful life—not just by what happens to us, but by how we respond and what we choose next.
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