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I think it is possible for ordinary people to choose to be extraordinary.

Elon Musk

Commencement speech at Caltech, 2012 · Gecheckt op 3 maart 2026
I think it is possible for ordinary people to choose to be extraordinary.

Analyse

The exact phrasing—*'I think it is possible for ordinary people to choose to be extraordinary.'*—appears in the official transcript and video of Musk’s 2012 Caltech commencement address. The line reflects his broader narrative on perseverance and self-improvement, a recurring theme in his interviews and speeches. No credible evidence contradicts the attribution or context. The statement is both verifiable and accurately quoted.

Achtergrond

Elon Musk delivered the commencement speech at Caltech on June 15, 2012, where he discussed his entrepreneurial journey, the importance of hard work, and the potential for individuals to achieve exceptional outcomes. Caltech published the full transcript and video, which remain publicly accessible. Musk’s emphasis on 'choosing to be extraordinary' aligns with his advocacy for ambition in ventures like SpaceX and Tesla.

Samenvatting verdict

Elon Musk did make this statement during his 2012 Caltech commencement speech, and the sentiment aligns with his public messaging about ambition and effort.

Geraadpleegde bronnen

— California Institute of Technology (Caltech). (2012, June 15). *Commencement 2012: Elon Musk’s Speech* [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glYwX1S6k1Q (timestamp: ~12:40)
— California Institute of Technology. (2012). *2012 Commencement Address by Elon Musk* [Transcript]. https://www.caltech.edu/about/news/commencement-2012-elon-musk-48711 (Archived)
— Vance, A. (2015). *Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future*. HarperCollins. (pp. 245–246, discussing Musk’s views on effort and achievement)