Colette

"Peace comes from knowing you've done your absolute best."

"Nature provides the ingredients. We provide the genius."

"I am the proof that women belong in every kitchen in the world."

"You can't fake passion. Either you have it or you don't."

"The only thing worse than failure is mediocrity."

"I don't follow fashion. I set it with every plate I send out."

"Imagination is dangerous. That's why I love it."

"Technology is useful, but technique is irreplaceable."

"History will remember the names of the great chefs. I intend to be one of them."

"Literature teaches you how to tell stories. Cooking is just telling them with food."

"Politics ruins everything, including kitchens. That's why I keep mine pure."

"Science explains how flavors work. Art is knowing what to do with that knowledge."

"I learned early that war and kitchens have much in common—strategy and survival."

"The difference between good and great is obsession."

"My family taught me that comfort is for the weak."

"I've built an empire from nothing but will and skill."

"Humor is a weapon. Use it wisely, or not at all."

"Death is the only thing that will stop me from cooking."

"Every mistake is a tool for the sharp mind."

"I am not searching for meaning. I create it every day."

"There is no such thing as a bad ingredient, only bad execution."

"Love is a luxury. Excellence is a necessity."

"If you're not moving forward in this industry, you're already falling behind."

"I respect only those who respect themselves first."

"The greatest lesson is learning that you're the only one responsible for your destiny."

"My scars are my medals. Every one tells a victory."

"I will not be diminished by anyone's expectations."

"Elegance is effortless only if you've worked until it becomes effortless."

"There's no room for doubt in a kitchen. Only action."

"I've learned that the best revenge is success."