Notes and Takeaways from Roger Federer’s Dartmouth Commencement Address

I recently watched Roger Federer’s 2024 commencement address at Dartmouth. He’s a funny guy and he made some interesting points worth considering:

Go here for the talk or scroll down for my notes.

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My notes

• Retirement is a word to avoid. We don’t retire. We graduate from various phases of life (college, professions, etc.)

• Effortlessness is a myth. If you see someone doing something with ease, you can bet they are working very hard behind the scenes with rigorous discipline.

• Don’t dwell on failure. Perfection is impossible. Move past mistakes and focus on the next opportunity with your full commitment and attention. Whatever games you’re playing in life, you’re going to lose some of them. Become a master at overcoming hard moments. You don’t have to win every moment to succeed. Adapt and grow. Work harder and work smarter.

• Life is bigger than your career. Maintain balance. Your long-term success in life depends on maintaining your personal health, sustaining relationships with friends and family, and experiencing new things.