Shoe Dog
by Phil Knight
"Shoe Dog" is a memoir by Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike, that chronicles the early days of the company and its evolution from a small startup selling imported running shoes to a global athletic powerhouse. Knight shares the challenges, risks, and triumphs he faced while building the brand, offering insights into entrepreneurship and the relentless pursuit of a dream. The narrative is both personal and inspirational, highlighting the importance of perseverance and teamwork in achieving success.
19 curated highlights from this book
Key Insights & Memorable Quotes
Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from Shoe Dog, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.
The only time you mustn't fail is the last time you try.
I was the kid who put the shoe on the wrong foot.
You can't get much done in life if you only work on the days you feel good.
Play by the rules, but be ferocious.
It’s the hard things that make life worth it.
I learned that if you’re going to make a mistake, make it big.
There’s no finish line.
We were all born with a gift.
The sole is the soul.
You have to be a little bit crazy to do this.
What I really want to do is to be able to share my story.
I have a great idea for a shoe. I don't know if it's a great idea, but it's an idea.
You can’t get much done in life if you only work on the days you feel good.
The cowards never started and the weak died along the way.
I learned that if you’re not going to be at the top of your game, you’re not going to make it.
If you’re not a little bit scared, you’re not really in business.
Life is not about the destination, it’s about the journey.
The best way to be successful is to be prepared.
All that matters is that you keep going.