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The vicious cycle starts: if you fail at something, you…

“The vicious cycle starts: if you fail at something, you think it is your fault. Therefore you think you can’t do that task. As a result, next time you have to do the task, you believe you can’t, so you don’t even try. The result is that you can’t, just as you thought. You’re trapped in a…” quote by Don Norman
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““The vicious cycle starts: if you fail at something, you think it is your fault. Therefore you think you can’t do that task. As a result, next time you have to do the task, you believe you can’t, so you don’t even try. The result is that you can’t, just as you thought. You’re trapped in a self-fulfilling prophecy.””

Don Norman

About This Quote

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

Self‑fulfilling prophecies trap people in failure by reinforcing negative self‑beliefs.

In simple terms: Negative beliefs cause failure.

Key Takeaway

Break the cycle by challenging self‑doubt.

Themes

psychology behavior learning

Mood

thoughtful encouraging

Type

psychology self‑help

When to use this quote

  • education
  • workplace
  • personal development
  • coaching

Key Concepts

cognitive bias self‑efficacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can you take to test your assumptions?
  • How do you support others stuck in similar cycles?
A Different Perspective

Changing mindset alone may not address external obstacles.

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