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Succeeding makes us feel good. But beating someone else…

“Succeeding makes us feel good. But beating someone else makes us feel really good. Comparing ourselves to others and coming out on top creates a sense of entitlement. And when we feel entitled, we cheat more because, of course, the rules don't apply to awesome people like us.” quote by Daniel H. Pink
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“Succeeding makes us feel good. But beating someone else makes us feel really good. Comparing ourselves to others and coming out on top creates a sense of entitlement. And when we feel entitled, we cheat more because, of course, the rules don't apply to awesome people like us.”

Daniel H. Pink

About This Quote

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

Winning feels good, but surpassing others feels even better, fostering entitlement that can lead to cheating.

In simple terms: Beating others boosts ego and may justify rule‑breaking.

Key Takeaway

Beware of entitlement; uphold fairness.

Themes

competition ego ethics motivation

Mood

critical motivational

Type

ethical psychological

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • sports
  • academic settings
  • online gaming

Key Concepts

social comparison self‑esteem moral hazard

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does healthy competition become harmful?
  • How can you foster fair play?
A Different Perspective

Entitlement can erode trust and integrity in groups.

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