William E. Simon Quotes

Powerful William E. Simon for Daily Growth

About William E. Simon

William E. Simon Jr., born on February 3, 1924, in New York City, was an influential American businessman, statesman, and writer. Known for his conservative political views, he served as the 67th U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Gerald Ford from 1974 to 1977. Born into a working-class family, Simon demonstrated an early aptitude for business and finance. He graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1948 and later served as a Captain in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. His professional career began at Lehman Brothers, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a partner. Simon's political career took off when he was appointed as the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury by President Ford. During his tenure, he implemented policies aimed at curbing inflation, including the Federal Reserve's "Wage-Price Guidelines" and the Chrysler Corporation bailout. Post-government service, Simon returned to Wall Street, becoming a key figure in the financial world. He served as chairman of several prominent corporations, including General Electric, Bechtel Group, and the Washington Post Company. Simon was also an accomplished author, penning several books that delved into political and economic issues. His most notable work, "A Time for Truth: The U.S. Treasury Under Ford" (1978), provided a firsthand account of his tenure as Treasury Secretary. Throughout his life, Simon was known for his strong convictions and leadership. He passed away on June 20, 2000, leaving behind a significant legacy in both the business and political realms. His quotes reflect his steadfast belief in free-market principles, individual responsibility, and national security.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"If you have an important point to make, don't try to be subtle or clever. Use a pile driver. Hit the point once. Then come back and hit it again. Then hit it a third time - a tremendous whack."

This quote by William E. Simon emphasizes the importance of clarity and repetition when making important points. In other words, rather than trying to be subtle or clever, it's more effective to deliver your message forcefully and repeatedly for maximum impact. The idea is to drive the point home by emphasizing it multiple times, similar to how a pile driver repeatedly hammers a single point into the ground.


"A budget tells us what we can't afford, but it doesn't keep us from buying it."

This quote by William E. Simon highlights the discrepancy between a budget that outlines financial limitations, and actual spending habits. It suggests that despite knowing what we cannot afford, people often choose to spend beyond their means, perhaps due to impulsive or emotional decisions rather than logical ones based on their financial plan. The quote serves as a reminder of the importance of budgeting and fiscal responsibility, and the challenge many face in practicing it consistently.


"People are poor because they think that work is for other people."

This quote suggests that poverty may persist among some individuals due to a mindset or belief system that undervalues hard work. In other words, those who are poor may hold the perspective that work is not something they themselves should engage in, thereby perpetuating their own economic struggles. This statement implies the importance of fostering a positive attitude towards work and self-improvement as key factors in escaping poverty.


"The best way to make your dreams come true is to wake up."

This quote suggests that one should take proactive steps towards realizing their dreams, rather than passively waiting for them to materialize. In essence, it encourages individuals to actively engage with life, pursue their goals, and take control of their own destinies - a powerful reminder that the first step towards making our dreams come true is to consciously choose to act upon them.


"To be a successful capitalist, you have to be a socialist at heart."

This quote by William E. Simon suggests that effective capitalism requires a certain level of altruism or concern for society as a whole, even if the economic system being used is capitalism. In other words, capitalists should have a "socialist" mindset in terms of considering the broader social impact of their business decisions and ensuring that wealth creation benefits not just themselves but also society at large. This could involve investing in communities, providing fair wages, or prioritizing ethical practices, for example. Ultimately, it implies that true success in capitalism is not just about accumulating wealth, but also about creating a positive impact on society.


The American citizen must be made aware that today a relatively small group of people is proclaiming its purposes to be the will of the People. That elitist approach to government must be repudiated.

- William E. Simon

Small, Will, Citizen, Elitist

Bad politicians are sent to Washington by good people who don't vote.

- William E. Simon

Politics, Bad, Politicians, Vote

Productivity and the growth of productivity must be the first economic consideration at all times, not the last. That is the source of technological innovation, jobs, and wealth.

- William E. Simon

Innovation, Wealth, Last, Economic

Writing checks for charities is necessary and important. But it can't compare with corporal works of mercy, which are infinitely greater.

- William E. Simon

Which, Infinitely, Charities, Mercy

The nation should have a tax system that looks like someone designed it on purpose.

- William E. Simon

Looks, Someone, System, Designed

Infinitely more important than sharing one's material wealth is sharing the wealth of ourselves - our time and energy, our passion and commitment, and, above all, our love.

- William E. Simon

Love, Wealth, Infinitely, Our Love

I continue to believe that the American people have a love-hate relationship with inflation. They hate inflation but love everything that causes it.

- William E. Simon

Love, Believe, American, Love-Hate

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