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If I care to listen to every criticism, let alone act on…

“If I care to listen to every criticism, let alone act on them, then this shop may as well be closed for all other businesses. I have learned to do my best, and if the end result is good then I do not care for any criticism, but if the end result is not good, then even the praise of ten angels…” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“If I care to listen to every criticism, let alone act on them, then this shop may as well be closed for all other businesses. I have learned to do my best, and if the end result is good then I do not care for any criticism, but if the end result is not good, then even the praise of ten angels would not make the difference.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Listening to all criticism can paralyze action; focus on outcomes, not endless feedback.

In simple terms: Ignore excessive criticism; judge by results.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize results over endless critique.

Themes

leadership decision-making criticism

Mood

determined pragmatic

Type

advice motivational

When to use this quote

  • business management
  • personal projects
  • creative work
  • team leadership

Key Concepts

feedback loops confidence self-reliance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance useful feedback with decisive action?
  • When is silence better than listening?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on criticism can stifle innovation.

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