Meaning: The quote "Everybody thinks that I did this and I did that, but I just went along with the times" by Joe Gold, a prominent businessman, reflects the idea that individuals are often attributed with more agency and intentionality than they actually possess. In this instance, Gold seems to be suggesting that his actions and successes were not solely the result of his own deliberate choices, but rather were influenced by the prevailing circumstances and zeitgeist of the era in which he operated.

Joe Gold was the founder of Gold's Gym, a fitness empire that started as a small bodybuilding gym in Venice, California, and grew into an iconic brand synonymous with fitness and bodybuilding. His quote may be interpreted in the context of his entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of the fitness industry. Gold's Gym played a significant role in popularizing bodybuilding and strength training, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s when there was a burgeoning interest in physical fitness and a growing fitness culture in the United States.

In the context of Gold's business endeavors, the quote could be seen as a humble acknowledgment of the fact that his success was not solely a result of his individual actions, but was also shaped by the cultural shifts and trends in society. During the time when Gold's Gym was gaining prominence, there was a growing emphasis on physical fitness and bodybuilding, driven in part by the cultural icons and personalities of the era, such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and the rise of competitive bodybuilding.

The quote also speaks to the broader theme of individuals being products of their times. It suggests that people are often swept along by the currents of their social and historical contexts, and that their actions and achievements are not solely a result of their own intentions and efforts. This sentiment resonates with the idea that success is often influenced by external factors such as societal trends, economic conditions, and technological advancements.

From a business perspective, the quote may also reflect a degree of modesty on Gold's part, as it downplays the perception of individual agency and instead emphasizes the role of external forces in shaping his entrepreneurial journey. It is a reminder that success in business is not solely a result of individual genius or effort, but is also contingent on a range of external factors, including market conditions, consumer trends, and industry developments.

In conclusion, Joe Gold's quote "Everybody thinks that I did this and I did that, but I just went along with the times" encapsulates the idea that individual actions and achievements are often intertwined with the prevailing cultural, social, and economic forces of their time. It offers a perspective that acknowledges the influence of external factors on personal and business success, and serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between individuals and the broader context in which they operate.