I promised myself: Before your 18th birthday, you're going to be at Jean Paul Gaultier. And it worked. I was hired.

In this quote, Nicolas Ghesquière, a renowned fashion designer, reflects on a personal commitment he made to himself when he was younger. He set a clear, ambitious goal: to work at Jean Paul Gaultier before turning 18. This statement highlights Ghesquière's determination and focus on achieving his dream. The promise he made to himself shows how setting concrete goals can serve as a motivating force, driving one to take specific actions toward realizing those aspirations.

Ghesquière’s success in securing a position at Jean Paul Gaultier demonstrates the power of self-discipline and the belief that goals, no matter how lofty, are attainable with hard work and dedication. By achieving his goal at a young age, he not only fulfilled his promise but also set a foundation for his future career in the fashion industry. The story illustrates that even at a young age, one can make things happen through careful planning and commitment.

The origin of this quote lies in Ghesquière’s early passion for fashion and his determination to work with one of the most influential figures in the industry. His success at such a young age was a stepping stone that helped propel him to prominence as a designer. This quote encapsulates the importance of setting high expectations and having the confidence to chase after dreams, regardless of the challenges one may face.

Through this quote, Ghesquière encourages others to set clear, measurable goals and stay committed to achieving them, regardless of age or obstacles. It serves as a reminder that determination and a focused mindset can lead to success, even when the goal seems daunting.