Seek no praise, no reward, for anything you do. No sooner…
“Seek no praise, no reward, for anything you do. No sooner do we perform a good action than we begin to desire credit for it. No sooner do we give money to some charity than we want to see our names blazoned in the papers. Misery must come as the result of such desires.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Seeking praise turns good deeds into ego‑driven actions, leading to misery; true virtue is selfless.
In simple terms: Avoid seeking recognition for good deeds.
Key Takeaway
Act without expectation of reward.
Themes
humility
selflessness
virtue
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- daily kindness
- charitable work
Key Concepts
ego
motivation
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates your good actions?
- Can you find joy in giving without acknowledgment?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest can still motivate positive outcomes.