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To say less of yourself than is true is stupidity, not…

“To say less of yourself than is true is stupidity, not modesty. To pay yourself less than you are worth is cowardice and pusillanimity.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“To say less of yourself than is true is stupidity, not modesty. To pay yourself less than you are worth is cowardice and pusillanimity.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

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

Undervaluing yourself is foolish; true modesty is honest self‑assessment.

In simple terms: Self‑deprecation is not humility.

Key Takeaway

Value yourself accurately.

Themes

self‑esteem honesty modesty

Mood

thoughtful motivational

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • job negotiations
  • salary discussions
  • personal branding

Key Concepts

psychology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What prevents you from recognizing your worth?
  • How can you express confidence without arrogance?
A Different Perspective

Over‑confidence can also be detrimental.

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