Skip to content

You can die from someone else's misery — emotional states…

“You can die from someone else's misery — emotional states are as infectious as diseases. You may feel you are helping the drowning man but you are precipitating your own disaster. The unfortunate sometimes draw misfortune on themselves; they will also draw it on you. Associate with the happy and…” quote by Robert Greene
Download Open image
“You can die from someone else's misery — emotional states are as infectious as diseases. You may feel you are helping the drowning man but you are precipitating your own disaster. The unfortunate sometimes draw misfortune on themselves; they will also draw it on you. Associate with the happy and fortunate instead.”

Robert Greene

About This Quote

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

Emotional states spread like contagion; associating with misery can harm you, while aligning with happiness protects you.

In simple terms: Emotions are contagious; choose happy company.

Key Takeaway

Surround yourself with positivity.

Themes

emotions contagion relationships

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

advice psychological

When to use this quote

  • team building
  • social networking
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

psychology of influence emotional intelligence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you protect yourself from negative emotions?
  • Can you help others without harming yourself?
A Different Perspective

It may oversimplify complex interpersonal dynamics.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Robert Greene

Explore all 511 Robert Greene quotes

More Associates quotes

Browse all 471 Associates quotes