“The one thing I regret was that my work required an enormous amount of my time, and a lot of travel.”
- August 5, 1930 – August 25, 2012
- American
- Astronaut, Aerospace Engineer, First Person to Walk on the Moon
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Quote
“The one thing I regret was that my work required an enormous amount of my time, and a lot of travel.”
Explanation
In this quote, Neil Armstrong reflects with candor on the personal cost of a high-achieving career. While known globally for his role in space exploration and aeronautics, Armstrong admits that the demands of his work — intensive time commitments and constant travel — came at a price. This admission reveals a deeply human concern about the balance between professional success and personal presence, a tension many high-performing individuals face.
Armstrong’s regret is not about the nature of his work or its impact, but about the sacrifices it required, particularly time that could have been spent with loved ones. His words remind us that even those who accomplish great feats are not immune to the emotional weight of what must be left behind. The quiet honesty in this quote adds dimension to Armstrong’s legacy, portraying him not only as a hero of science and exploration but also as someone reflective about the human cost of greatness.
In today’s culture of constant hustle and global connectivity, the quote serves as a poignant reminder that time is the one resource we cannot reclaim. It encourages professionals across fields to consider the long-term effects of relentless ambition, and to prioritize balance and presence where possible. Armstrong’s reflection teaches us that fulfillment isn’t measured only by achievements, but also by the moments we are present for — and those we miss.
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