The statement reflects a person's desire to transcend the status of an intermediate stage in one’s career or life journey. In many professions, particularly in craftsmanship and arts, being a "journeyman" refers to someone who has completed their apprenticeship but hasn't yet achieved master status; they are still learning and growing but have moved beyond the novice phase.
At a deeper level, this quote suggests an ambition to not be content with merely existing within a transitional state. It implies dissatisfaction with merely maintaining or progressing at a steady pace without reaching for higher achievements. The speaker aims for mastery and recognizes that being satisfied with one’s current status as a journeyman is insufficient if they truly want to excel. This mindset underscores the importance of continuous growth, ambition, and striving for excellence in any field.
The quote comes from Alexander Gustafsson, a Swedish mixed martial artist known for his participation in Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). His statement likely relates to his approach towards his career as he seeks to rise above his current level and achieve greater success within the competitive world of professional fighting.
