If contemplation of other people's pain just increases…
![“If contemplation of other people's pain just increases distress, then I think we should see it in another way. If we don't center too much on ourselves, then [we] increase our courage and our determination to remedy the pain, not our distress. If we have unconditional compassion, then it increases…” quote by Matthieu Ricard](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/44d/matthieu-ricard-4004_another-way_if-contemplation-of-other-people-s-pain_1873079.jpg)
“If contemplation of other people's pain just increases distress, then I think we should see it in another way. If we don't center too much on ourselves, then [we] increase our courage and our determination to remedy the pain, not our distress. If we have unconditional compassion, then it increases our courage. So that's the difference, self-centered motivation versus altruistic motivation.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Shifting focus from personal suffering to others' pain can foster compassion, boosting courage and resolve to help.
In simple terms: Caring for others builds bravery.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate altruistic compassion.
Themes
compassion
courage
altruism
Mood
inspirational
empathetic
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- counseling
- social work
- daily kindness
Key Concepts
empathy
psychology
ethical motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does helping others affect your own well‑being?
- What limits your capacity for compassion?
A Different Perspective
Self‑centered focus can still cause burnout.