"That is the worst idea I have ever heard in my life."

“It is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound re-invention. So, at the age of 47, after 25 years of obsessively pursuing my dream, that dream changed. For decades in show business the ultimate goal of every comedian was to host The Tonight Show: it was the holy grail. And like many people, I thought that achieving that goal would define me as successful. But that is not true. No specific job or career goal defines me, nor should it define you. In 2000, I told graduates not to be afraid to fail and I still believe that. But today I tell you whether you fear it or not, disappoint will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity and with clarity, comes conviction and true originality.” - Conan O’Brien, 2011 Dartmouth College Commencement Address