Jerome Kagan, the Harvard psychologist, only hires people…
“Jerome Kagan, the Harvard psychologist, only hires people who are anxious, because he thinks they are better and more conscientious workers. I do think that being afraid of failing spurred me to do more and more and ask more questions, but there are ways it holds me back. There are reporting trips I haven't gone on. It's a mixed blessing at best.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author reflects on hiring anxious people, noting anxiety can drive diligence but also cause missed opportunities, presenting it as a double‑edged trait.
In simple terms: Anxiety can boost work ethic but also limit actions.
Key Takeaway
Balance leveraging anxiety while managing its constraints.
Themes
psychology
workplace
anxiety
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analysis
advice
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- project planning
- self‑assessment
Key Concepts
motivation
risk aversion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can organizations support anxious employees?
- What strategies reduce anxiety’s limiting effects?
A Different Perspective
Anxiety may lead to burnout if unchecked.