← Back to overview Language: NL EN

People should pursue what they're passionate about. That will make them happier than pretty much anything else.

Elon Reeve Musk

University of Southern California commencement speech, 2014 · Checked on 26 February 2026
People should pursue what they're passionate about. That will make them happier than pretty much anything else.

Analysis

The statement matches a direct quote from Elon Musk's commencement address at the University of Southern California on May 12, 2014. In the speech he told graduates to "follow your curiosity and your heart" and that "pursuing what you're passionate about will make you happier than pretty much anything else." The wording in the claim is a faithful paraphrase of his remarks.

Background

Elon Musk was the keynote speaker at USC's 2014 graduation ceremony, where he shared advice on entrepreneurship, risk‑taking, and personal fulfillment. His remarks emphasized following one's interests rather than chasing money, a theme consistent with his public statements elsewhere.

Verdict summary

Elon Musk did say that people should pursue their passions, saying it will make them happier than almost anything else, during the 2014 USC commencement.

Sources consulted

— https://news.usc.edu/77584/elon-musk-delivers-usc-commencement-address/
— https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZgH5Y3GZ0c (USC 2014 Commencement Speech)
— https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-usc-commencement-speech-2014-5