Quote of the day by American author William Faulkner: 'Do not bother just to be better than your contemporaries. Try to be better than yourself'

William Faulkner is widely regarded as one of the most important voices in American literature. A towering figure of the 20th century, he shaped modern fiction with his bold storytelling techniques and deeply layered characters. Though he never graduated from high school, he went on to write 13 novels and numerous short stories, many of which are now considered literary classics.

William Faulkner's quote and its meaning

Among his many powerful words, one quote continues to inspire readers across generations: “Always dream and shoot higher than you know you can do. Do not bother just to be better than your contemporaries or predecessors. Try to be better than yourself.”

At its core, the quote is a call for self-improvement. William urges individuals to aim beyond what they believe they are capable of achieving. Instead of measuring success by comparison with peers or trying to outshine others, he suggests that the true challenge lies in surpassing one’s own limitations. In simple terms, growth comes from pushing personal boundaries.



The message holds strong relevance in today’s world. We live in an era dominated by constant comparison, whether in workplaces, academic spaces, or on social media. People often evaluate their worth by looking at others’ achievements, which can lead to unnecessary pressure and self-doubt. His words shift the focus inward. They remind us that real success is not about being better than someone else, but about becoming a better version of ourselves.

All you need to know about William Faulkner

Faulkner’s own life shows this philosophy of persistence. According to the Nobel Prize official site, he was born in 1897 in Oxford, Mississippi. He grew up in a traditional Southern family. His experiences in the American South deeply influenced his writing. During World War I, he joined the Canadian and later the British Royal Air Force. He briefly studied at the University of Mississippi and worked various jobs, including at a bookstore and a newspaper, before dedicating himself fully to writing.


One of his most remarkable achievements was the creation of Yoknapatawpha County, a fictional setting that became the backdrop for many of his novels. Through this imagined world, William explored the historical transformation of the South, examining themes of decline, racial tension and identity. His major works include The Sound and the Fury, Light in August and Absalom, Absalom!.