When I dropped out [from a law school], everybody was…
![“When I dropped out [from a law school], everybody was disappointed... But I found that disappointing people is a good thing, because disapproval is freedom. Before that, I never realized how much I sought other people's approval. Once I figured that out, I was free to move on and seek the approval…” quote by Demetri Martin](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/1b0/demetri-martin-511_approval_when-i-dropped-out-from-a-law-school-eve_2671287.jpg)
“When I dropped out [from a law school], everybody was disappointed... But I found that disappointing people is a good thing, because disapproval is freedom. Before that, I never realized how much I sought other people's approval. Once I figured that out, I was free to move on and seek the approval of other people, in comedy clubs and showbiz meetings.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Leaving law school freed him from seeking approval; now he seeks audience approval in comedy.
In simple terms: He swapped one approval for another.
Key Takeaway
Find intrinsic motivation.
Themes
approval
freedom
career change
Mood
humorous
reflective
Type
comedic
self‑help
When to use this quote
- career counseling
- comedy workshops
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
creative arts
social expectations
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your approval seeking?
- How to cultivate self‑validation?
A Different Perspective
Approval cycles can persist.