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We are not always humiliated by failing at things; we are…

“We are not always humiliated by failing at things; we are humiliated only if we first invest our pride and sense of worth in a given achievement, and then do not reach it.” quote by Alain de Botton
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““We are not always humiliated by failing at things; we are humiliated only if we first invest our pride and sense of worth in a given achievement, and then do not reach it.””

Alain de Botton

About This Quote

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

Humiliation stems from attaching self‑worth to outcomes rather than effort.

In simple terms: Pride tied to results causes humiliation.

Key Takeaway

Detach self‑worth from specific achievements.

Themes

pride self‑worth humiliation

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

advice inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career setbacks
  • personal goals
  • public performances

Key Concepts

psychology philosophy self‑esteem

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you measure worth beyond results?
  • What practices protect against pride?
A Different Perspective

Success can still be elusive despite effort.

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