Eric D. Thomas Quotes

Powerful Eric D. Thomas for Daily Growth

About Eric D. Thomas

Eric Thomas Dickey (July 31, 1961 – June 3, 2019) was an influential African-American author, best known for his erotic novels that often explored themes of love, power dynamics, and self-discovery among black men and women. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Eric Dickey grew up in a military family and lived in various places around the United States before settling in New York City. He studied business management at the State University of New York at Old Westbury and worked as a computer consultant before deciding to pursue writing full-time. In 1996, Dickey published his first novel, "Cheaters," which quickly gained popularity due to its gripping storyline and relatable characters. His work was noted for its vivid portrayal of urban life and the complexities of relationships between African Americans. Some of his most popular works include "Sister, Sister," "Third Degree" series, and "Liberty: A Novel." Dickey's writing style was unique in that he combined elements of erotica with suspenseful plotlines and character development. His characters were often strong, independent women who challenged the traditional roles of black women in literature. Dickey's works have been celebrated for their depiction of realistic relationships and the exploration of social issues within the African-American community. In 2019, Eric Dickey passed away at the age of 57 due to complications from diabetes. His legacy continues to live on through his prolific body of work, which has inspired countless readers and influenced a new generation of writers. His contributions to African-American literature have cemented his place as a prominent figure in the genre.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you'll be successful."

This quote emphasizes the importance of a relentless pursuit for success that is equal to one's desire for life itself, symbolized by breathing. The idea is that when ambition for achievement becomes an integral part of one's existence, comparable to the necessity of life-sustaining breaths, then that person will inevitably achieve their goals and be successful. It suggests a mindset that values perseverance and determination over circumstance or luck.


"If you believe it will work out, you'll see opportunities. If you doubt it, you'll see obstacles."

This quote emphasizes that one's mindset can significantly influence the way they perceive situations or opportunities in life. A positive, optimistic perspective leads to recognizing possibilities and potential solutions (seeing opportunities), while a negative or pessimistic outlook focuses on perceived challenges and difficulties (seeing obstacles). Essentially, the quote is highlighting that believing something will work out encourages us to view the world in a more resourceful and productive manner, as opposed to dwelling on potential problems.


"Don't wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles and less than ideal conditions. So what? Get started now. With each step you take, you will grow stronger and stronger, more and more skilled, more and more self-confident and more and more successful."

This quote by Eric D. Thomas encourages action despite the presence of imperfections or challenges. It suggests that one should not wait for ideal circumstances to begin a task or pursue a goal, as such conditions are unlikely to ever be completely perfect. Instead, it advises starting now and growing stronger through each step taken towards achieving success. Essentially, the quote emphasizes the importance of taking action, building resilience, and gaining self-confidence in the face of obstacles, rather than waiting for everything to be just right.


"When God is at the helm, storms become milestones."

This quote suggests that when we face challenging situations or "storms" in our lives, if we trust in a higher power (God) to guide us through them, those difficult times can serve as significant stepping stones towards personal growth and development. It implies that despite the difficulties, one can find purpose and progress in adversity, as long as they maintain faith and keep moving forward with divine guidance.


"You cannot change your destination overnight, but you can change your direction overnight."

This quote underscores that while it may take time to achieve a significant life goal or change one's overall circumstances (destination), individuals have the power to alter their course of action or approach towards achieving those goals (direction) immediately. It encourages persistence and continuous effort in the right direction, as even small changes can lead to long-term progress over time.


In my estimation, there are four kinds of people that live on this earth: average, good, great, and phenomenal. Phenomenal is like Mother Theresa. She's dead, but we still talk about her on a regular basis. That's phenomenal.

- Eric D. Thomas

Average, About, Kinds, Regular Basis

Bottom line, I removed myself from the victim mentality and took control of my life. I'm not just going to take responsibility for the success in my life - I'm going to take responsibility for the failures in my life. When you're willing to accept that you're the problem, you immediately become the solution.

- Eric D. Thomas

My Life, Line, Willing, Victim

You can't take our people from Africa and put us in a diaspora and spread us all over the world. And we survived slavery - and we can't pass a test? ... And you're gonna tell me we can't learn how to write? Have you lost your mind? We are survivors. That's all we do is survive.

- Eric D. Thomas

Tell, Your, Our, Our People

Do you know, if I go to a Jewish school, them kids are quiet. If I go to a white school, them kids quiet. If I go to a Latino school, they quiet. The only kids that disrespect me is black kids. That's it - my own are the only ones that disrespect me.

- Eric D. Thomas

Own, Go, My Own, Do You Know

When you want to succeed as bad as you want breathe, then you will be successful.

- Eric D. Thomas

Want, Bad, Will, Breathe

Most kids just follow the cycle. My grandfather didn't finish high school. My father didn't, and I didn't. But you can break the cycle. You can have a successful marriage and be a good father.

- Eric D. Thomas

Father, Follow, Break, Successful

Average people get to school late; they're average. They barely do their school work.

- Eric D. Thomas

School, Late, Average, Average People

People talk about how great this country is - and it's a great country - but I feel that many young people don't believe they have access to the American dream.

- Eric D. Thomas

Young, Country, Access, American Dream

Listen to me carefully: My father wasn't in my life, but it feels good taking care of my kids.

- Eric D. Thomas

Father, My Life, Feels, Carefully

Most of the people that I deal with have no vision, and they live out the reality that's given to them.

- Eric D. Thomas

Vision, Most, Given, Deal

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