In simple terms, the quote suggests that starting a company or undertaking any significant endeavor often requires an initial sense of naivety about the challenges and hard work involved. The speaker acknowledges that if one fully comprehended the extent of the effort required from the outset, they might not have the courage to begin.
The deeper meaning of this statement touches on the psychological aspect of embarking on ambitious projects. It implies that a certain degree of optimism or ignorance can be beneficial in overcoming initial barriers and motivating oneself to persist through difficult times. Anne Wojcicki suggests that while she recognizes how demanding her work is, it's easier to take on such challenges when one isn't fully aware of the magnitude of those demands. This perspective also highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in achieving long-term goals.
Anne Wojcicki is an entrepreneur and co-founder of 23andMe, a genetic testing company that provides customers with information about their ancestry and health through DNA analysis. Her quote reflects her personal experience as a leader in the biotechnology industry, where innovation often comes from exploring uncharted territories despite significant obstacles.
