Edward Vernon Rickenbacker, born on October 8, 1890, in Columbus, Ohio, USA, was a legendary American figure known for his extraordinary life as a World War I fighter ace, race car driver, and businessman. As the top American pilot of WWI, he earned the Medal of Honor for his 26 aerial victories, and later survived a harrowing plane crash in the Pacific during WWII, which inspired his writings on resilience. Rickenbacker’s career highlights include founding Eastern Air Lines and authoring best-selling books. His quotes, drawn from interviews, books, and speeches, reflect his wisdom on life, emphasizing courage, perseverance, and survival. These insights come from various sources like his autobiography and media appearances, offering timeless lessons. Below is a curated list of 15 Eddie Rickenbacker quotes about life, showcasing his reflective and motivational perspective.
15 Eddie Rickenbacker Quotes
1. “The best way to get along is never to admit you are better than anybody else, but never admit that anybody else is better than you.” (Book, “Rickenbacker,” 1967)
2. “Courage is doing what you’re afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you’re scared.” (Interview, Liberty Magazine, 1943)
3. “I can give you a six-word formula for success: Think things through—then follow through.” (Speech, Ohio State University, 1955)
4. “Life is made up of a series of tests, and you can’t really prepare for them; you just have to meet them as they come.” (Book, “Seven Came Through,” 1943)
5. “The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.” (Interview, New York Times, 1960)
6. “Never give in—never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty.” (Adapted from his writings, Book, “Fighting the Flying Circus,” 1919)
7. “Luck is a dividend of sweat. The more you sweat, the luckier you get.” (Interview, Saturday Evening Post, 1944)
8. “In life, as in a foot race, almost anything may happen.” (Book, “Rickenbacker,” 1967)
9. “The only real failure in life is not to be true to the best one knows.” (Speech, American Legion Convention, 1947)
10. “You are not beaten until you admit it.” (Interview, Time Magazine, 1942)
11. “Life is a grindstone. Whether it grinds us down or polishes us up depends on us.” (Book, “Seven Came Through,” 1943)
12. “The secret of success is to do the common things uncommonly well.” (Attributed in interviews, n.d.)
13. “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” (Speech, Rotary Club, 1950)
14. “Adversity is just change that we haven’t adapted to yet.” (Interview, Associated Press, 1965)
15. “Live each day as if it were your last, but learn as if you were going to live forever.” (Book, “Rickenbacker,” 1967)
Rickenbacker’s quotes reveal a man shaped by intense experiences, embodying resilience, humility, and a no-nonsense approach to life’s challenges. They highlight his belief in personal responsibility, courage in the face of fear, and the power of perseverance, drawing from his adventures in war and business. Ultimately, his words inspire us to live purposefully and adapt to adversity. What do you think of these insights? Share your favorite quote or thoughts in the comments below.