More from Dr. Mehmet Oz

Whatever you choose to do, do it with a childlike passion.

DMO

Dr. Mehmet Oz

West Chester University Commencement 2011, 2011

0:00

Video starts at 0:00 — the moment this quote was spoken

The Story Behind This Quote

Dr. Mehmet Oz, the cardiothoracic surgeon and television personality, delivered a commencement address at West Chester University structured as 'Ten Tips I Wish I Knew When I Graduated From College.' His sixth tip emphasized the importance of approaching work with the uninhibited enthusiasm of a child rather than the calculated professionalism of an adult. As both a practicing surgeon and a media figure, Oz occupied a unique position to comment on passion in work. Surgery demands technical precision, but the best surgeons bring an intensity and curiosity that goes beyond mere competence. Similarly, his television career succeeded not because he had superior medical knowledge, but because he communicated with genuine enthusiasm that audiences could feel. The word 'childlike' was carefully chosen to distinguish from 'childish.' Childlike passion is characterized by wonder, full engagement, and unselfconsciousness — qualities that adults systematically train themselves out of in the pursuit of appearing professional and competent.

Collect Your Favorite Quotes

Save quotes that inspire you. Build your personal collection of wisdom in Minditly — available on both platforms.