"I'm proud of the fact that I made my way in life very rigorously. I was a bit too stubborn when it came to certain things, which was unnecessary, like getting independent from and leaving Germany"

Thomas Kretschmann's quote shows a deeply personal and introspective recommendation of his life options and the qualities that drove them. At its core, the quote records a sense of accomplishment and self-awareness. Kretschmann starts by revealing pride in the rigor with which he approached his life's journey. This suggests a disciplined, maybe even relentless, dedication to overcoming difficulties and attaining his goals. Using the word "carefully" implies a methodical and steadfast pursuit, most likely including sacrifice and determination.

Nevertheless, Kretschmann likewise admits to a certain stubbornness, particularly regarding his decision to end up being independent from Germany. This suggests that his willpower may have, sometimes, verged on obstinacy, leading him to choose that were perhaps more driven by feeling or concept rather than practicality or need. Stubbornness, in this context, can be viewed as a double-edged sword; it may have moved him towards success, yet likewise caused decisions that, in retrospect, appear unnecessarily rigid.

His reference of "getting independent from and leaving Germany" represents a considerable turning point in his life. For Kretschmann, leaving his country of origin could represent both an actual and metaphorical departure from his past. This decision likely entailed leaving not just geographical and cultural familiarity but likewise personal ties, comfort zones, and perhaps even a part of his identity. Such shifts are typically filled with both chance and difficulty, highlighting the guts and vision needed to pursue a new path.

Eventually, Kretschmann's reflection is a sincere appraisal of his life's journey. It acknowledges the virtues and vices intrinsic to his nature and the complex interaction in between the two in shaping his life. His admission of unneeded stubbornness reveals a maturity and willingness to gain from past experiences, highlighting the continuous journey of self-discovery and growth.