We can't be useful to ourselves unless we're useful to…
“We can't be useful to ourselves unless we're useful to others … Anyone concerned only by his own well-being will suffer eventually. Anyone concerned with the well-being of others takes care of himself without even thinking about it. Even if we decide to remain selfish. let us be intelligently selfish - let us help others.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Helping others is essential for personal well‑being; selfishness can be reframed as intelligent self‑care through service.
In simple terms: Helping others helps yourself.
Key Takeaway
Serve to thrive.
Themes
altruism
self‑care
interdependence
Mood
compassionate
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- team projects
- community support
- mentoring
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
Buddhist ethics
reciprocity
psychological well‑being
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance self‑care with serving others?
- What does “intelligently selfish” mean to you?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest may conflict with genuine altruism if motives are insincere.