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when you want something so desperately, you shake with the…

“when you want something so desperately, you shake with the need for it. you tell yourself that you don't need more than one sip, because it's just the taste you crave, and once it's on your tongue you will be able to make it last alifetime. you dream of it at night. you see a thousand mile-high…” quote by Jodi Picoult
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“when you want something so desperately, you shake with the need for it. you tell yourself that you don't need more than one sip, because it's just the taste you crave, and once it's on your tongue you will be able to make it last alifetime. you dream of it at night. you see a thousand mile-high obstacles between where you stand and what you want, and you convince yourself you have the power to hurdle them. you tell yourself this even when, leaping the first block, you wind up bruised and bloodied and flattened.”

Jodi Picoult

About This Quote

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

Intense desire can amplify perceived obstacles, leading to self‑deception about effort and reward.

In simple terms: Strong cravings distort reality and cause self‑inflicted pain.

Key Takeaway

Recognize desire, assess realistic steps.

Themes

desire self‑deception obstacle perception resilience

Mood

anxious determined reflective

Type

motivational cautionary psychological

When to use this quote

  • goal setting
  • addiction recovery
  • personal growth
  • overcoming setbacks

Key Concepts

psychology motivation cognitive bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your cravings?
  • How can you balance desire with realistic planning?
A Different Perspective

Desire alone doesn't guarantee success; action must be sustainable.

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