Every once in a while, a speech comes along that doesn’t just inspire, but changes the way you look at life.
It sticks with you not because it’s long or flashy, but because it speaks the truth so clearly that you feel it in your core.
That’s exactly what happened when Brian Dyson, former CEO of Coca-Cola (1986–1991), delivered a commencement speech at Georgia Tech in 1996.
While the full speech was longer, one part, often quoted as “the best 30-second speech ever given,” remains a popular excerpt today. And for good reason.
It’s short. It’s sharp. And it’s a timeless reminder of what really matters.
I discovered the full version while researching commencement speeches a little while ago.
The full version is poignant and powerful. It stirs something in you, no matter where you are in life – job hunting, self-employed, or employed, and stressed out.
The Famous 30-Second Speech Excerpt
Imagine life as a game in which you are juggling some five balls in the air. You name them – work, family, health, friends and spirit … and you’re keeping all of these in the air.
You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. But the other four balls – family, health, friends and spirit – are made of glass. If you drop one of these, they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged or even shattered. They will never be the same. You must understand that and strive for Balance in your life.
How?
Don’t undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special.
Don’t set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you.
Don’t take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless.
Don’t let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live all the days of your life.
Don’t give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying.
Don’t be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us to each together.
Don’t be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be pave.
Don’t shut love out of your life by saying it’s impossible to find time. The quickest way to receive love is to give; the fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly; and the best way to keep love is to give it wings!
Don’t run through life so fast that you forget not only where you’ve been, but also where you are going.
Don’t forget, a person’s greatest emotional need is to feel appreciated.
Don’t be afraid to learn. Knowledge is weightless, a treasure you can always carry easily.
Don’t use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved. Life is not a race, but a journey to be savored each step of the way.
Why This Message Still Matters in 2025
More than two decades later, Dyson’s words feel more relevant than ever. In a world of hustle culture, social media comparison, and constant pressure to do more, this speech reminds us:-
- Work is important, but it’s not everything.
- Your relationships, health, and inner peace are fragile and sacred.
- Living in the moment is a radical act of presence.
- You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to keep going.
Whether you’re job hunting, self-employed, chasing a dream, or just trying to keep it together day by day, this message is for you.
Balance isn’t about doing everything. It’s about protecting what matters most.
Words may be weightless, but some of them carry us through our heaviest days.
This 30-second speech is one of them. May it meet you where you are, and help you move forward with more balance, presence, and purpose.
You can learn more about Brian Dyson HERE.
Anna gave up her 9 – 5 to implement her life plan after paying off over $40,000 in debt. She started The Writer Entrepreneur to share her journey and encourage other people to pay off debt and pursue their life plans. She has been featured on HuffPost, YouQueen & Fitnancials among others. Learn more about Anna HERE.
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