Hillary Clinton on Why Failure Should Not Hold You Back The Democratic candidate provided valuable advice in her concession speech.

By Nina Zipkin

Getty Images | Justin Sullivan

In a graceful concession speech in New York City on Wednesday, Hillary Rodham Clinton brought her historic campaign to a close with some valuable advice about how to contend with failures and setbacks in the course of your career.

After thanking her family, her running mate Sen. Tim Kaine, President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, her campaign staff and volunteers across the country, Clinton reflected on what she had learned in her decades of service.

Related: 5 Ways to Get Going Again After You've Survived a Setback

"I've had successes and setbacks and sometimes painful ones," she said. "Many of you are at the beginning of your professional, public and political careers. You will have successes and setbacks too. This loss hurts, but please never stop believing that fighting for what's right is worth it."

Clinton also encouraged unity.

Related: Why True Entrepreneurs View Setbacks As Opportunities

"I still believe in America, and I always will. And if you do, then we must accept this result and then look to the future," she said. "Donald Trump is going to be our president. We owe him an open mind and the chance to lead. Our constitutional democracy enshrines the peaceful transfer of power."

She wrapped up her speech emphasizing the importance of continuing to work hard, pursue every dream and opportunity and have the strength and courage of your convictions.

No matter where you fall on the political spectrum, that's advice we can all take to heart.

Nina Zipkin

Entrepreneur Staff

Staff Writer. Covers leadership, media, technology and culture.

Nina Zipkin is a staff writer at Entrepreneur.com. She frequently covers leadership, media, tech, startups, culture and workplace trends.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Business News

Microsoft Leaked Internal Survey Reveals How Software Engineers Really Feel About Their $205,000 Median Pay

Is working at Microsoft a good deal? An internal survey shows how employees view the company.

Science & Technology

Tech Giants Are Pouring Billions Into AI Data Centers — Are We Ready for the Real Estate Shift That Comes With It?

A silent land rush is underway — AI giants like OpenAI and Meta are buying up real estate at an unprecedented scale. But why, and what does it mean for the future of property markets?

Leadership

The Power of Thought in Shaping Your Success — How Mindset Drives Your Circumstances

Your mindset can either propel you to success or hold you back in mediocrity. Here's how you can start taking control of your thoughts to improve your business outcomes.