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Not rarely, and this is especially true of wives and…

“Not rarely, and this is especially true of wives and mothers, the motive behind assuming a disproportionate share of work and responsibility is completely unselfish. We want to protect, to spare those of whom we are fond. We forget that, regardless of the motive, the results of such action are…” quote by Hortense Odlum
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“Not rarely, and this is especially true of wives and mothers, the motive behind assuming a disproportionate share of work and responsibility is completely unselfish. We want to protect, to spare those of whom we are fond. We forget that, regardless of the motive, the results of such action are almost always destructive and unproductive.”

Hortense Odlum

About This Quote

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

People often take on excessive duties out of love, but such self‑sacrifice usually harms productivity and well‑being.

In simple terms: Self‑sacrifice can be destructive.

Key Takeaway

Balance duty with self‑care.

Themes

self‑sacrifice family productivity gender roles

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

advice observational

When to use this quote

  • family caregiving
  • workplace leadership
  • volunteer projects

Key Concepts

altruism burnout role strain

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you set healthy boundaries?
  • What support systems can share the load?
A Different Perspective

Self‑sacrifice may lead to resentment and inefficiency.

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