There are moments when you have to choose Meaning Factcheck Usage

Context

In the book, this idea isn’t just philosophical—it’s literal. The story follows a wealthy businessman so consumed by his goal of winning back his ex-wife that he’s willing to commit murder to “destroy entire worlds” for her. It’s a dark, extreme example that forces you to see the terrifying endgame of choosing success at any cost.

Usage Examples

This quote is a powerful gut-check. You can use it when:

• Mentoring a rising star: “I know you’re driven, and that’s great. But remember Coelho’s line about choosing between being human and being successful. Let’s talk about how you can win without losing yourself.”
• In a leadership meeting: “As we discuss these aggressive targets, let’s keep this principle in mind. Is there a way to achieve this that doesn’t compromise our team’s well-being or our company’s values?”
• Reflecting on your own career: It’s a perfect prompt for a personal journal entry. “Where am I facing this choice right now? What does ‘being human’ look like in this situation?”

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FAQ

Question: Does this mean you can’t be successful and a good person?

Answer: Not at all. The key word is “moments.” It’s not a permanent state. It’s about recognizing those critical junctures where the easy path to success requires a moral compromise. The challenge is to find a third way—a path to success that aligns with your humanity.

Question: Is this choice always black and white?

Answer: Rarely. It’s usually a spectrum of grey. The “choice” might be a series of small, justifiable compromises that slowly erode your character over time until you look up and don’t recognize yourself. That’s the real danger.

Question: Who is this quote most relevant for?

Answer: Honestly, anyone in a competitive field—entrepreneurs, artists, corporate climbers. But it’s especially crucial for leaders. The decisions they make at these crossroads don’t just affect them; they set the cultural tone for their entire organization.