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It is not the repeated mistakes, the long succession of…

“It is not the repeated mistakes, the long succession of petty betrayals--though, God knows, they would give cause enough for anxiety and self-contempt--but the huge elementary mistake, the betrayal of that within me which is greater than I--in complacent adjustment to alien demands.” quote by Dag Hammarskjold
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“It is not the repeated mistakes, the long succession of petty betrayals--though, God knows, they would give cause enough for anxiety and self-contempt--but the huge elementary mistake, the betrayal of that within me which is greater than I--in complacent adjustment to alien demands.”

Dag Hammarskjold

About This Quote

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

The greatest error is betraying one's inner self to conform to alien demands, not repeated minor betrayals.

In simple terms: Self-betrayal to external pressures is the worst mistake.

Key Takeaway

Stay true to inner values.

Themes

integrity self conformity

Mood

serious introspective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • career choices
  • personal integrity
  • ethical dilemmas
  • self-reflection

Key Concepts

existential psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inner values do you hold?
  • How do you resist external pressure?
A Different Perspective

Self-awareness can be challenging.

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