Skip to content

I think we waste a lot of time trying to convince other…

“I think we waste a lot of time trying to convince other people that we're right. A lot of times we don't actually care what another person thinks, we just want to say what we think. To hear it reflected back to us and that we're okay, to hear that we have been understood and that we're correct…” quote by Ottessa Moshfegh
Download Open image
“I think we waste a lot of time trying to convince other people that we're right. A lot of times we don't actually care what another person thinks, we just want to say what we think. To hear it reflected back to us and that we're okay, to hear that we have been understood and that we're correct - so that we can continue to be who we are in the ways we've been being, and we have nothing to feel bad about and everything is just fine. Even if what we're talking about is, like, police brutality.”

Ottessa Moshfegh

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 seek affirmation from others to feel validated, even when the topic is serious, which can hinder genuine dialogue.

In simple terms: Seeking approval can replace honest conversation.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize authentic listening.

Themes

communication validation self‑awareness

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • public debates
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

social psychology dialogue dynamics ethical discourse

Questions to Reflect On

  • When did you last listen without seeking agreement?
  • How can you foster honest dialogue?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on validation may suppress dissenting but.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ottessa Moshfegh

Explore all 82 Ottessa Moshfegh quotes

More Care quotes

Browse all 19,019 Care quotes