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When I was praised I lost my time, for instantly I turned…

“When I was praised I lost my time, for instantly I turned around to look at the work I had thought slightly of, and that day I made nothing new.” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“When I was praised I lost my time, for instantly I turned around to look at the work I had thought slightly of, and that day I made nothing new.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

Praising oneself distracts from creative work, causing stagnation.

In simple terms: Praise can halt progress.

Key Takeaway

Avoid seeking validation before creation.

Themes

self‑criticism creativity productivity

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • artistic projects
  • academic work

Key Concepts

ego focus self‑esteem

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you stay focused after receiving praise?
  • Can you separate validation from the process?
A Different Perspective

Creative flow suffers when attention shifts to external approval.

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