Skip to content

Pride attaches undue importance to the superiority of…

“Pride attaches undue importance to the superiority of one's status in the eyes of others; and shame is fear of humiliation at one's inferior status in the estimation of others. When one sets one's heart on being highly esteemed, and achieves such rating, then he or she is automatically involved in…” quote by Laozi
Download Open image
“Pride attaches undue importance to the superiority of one's status in the eyes of others; and shame is fear of humiliation at one's inferior status in the estimation of others. When one sets one's heart on being highly esteemed, and achieves such rating, then he or she is automatically involved in fear of losing status.”

Laozi

About This Quote

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

Pride and shame arise from caring about others' opinions on status, leading to fear of loss.

In simple terms: Pride and shame stem from status concerns.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility over status.

Themes

pride shame status

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • social media
  • career advancement
  • public speaking
  • relationship dynamics

Key Concepts

self‑esteem social comparison fear of loss

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does status affect your self‑worth?
  • Can you find value beyond external approval?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on status can cause anxiety and isolation.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Laozi

Explore all 1,140 Laozi quotes

More Achieve quotes

Browse all 6,390 Achieve quotes