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I don't want my work or me, as a person, to be held up as…

“I don't want my work or me, as a person, to be held up as a paradigm because, as Richard Dawkins knows, if people hold you up too much, you're only ever going to disappoint them by being a human.” quote by Tim Minchin
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“I don't want my work or me, as a person, to be held up as a paradigm because, as Richard Dawkins knows, if people hold you up too much, you're only ever going to disappoint them by being a human.”

Tim Minchin

About This Quote

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

We should avoid idealizing people, because perfection creates inevitable disappointment when they reveal their humanity.

In simple terms: Don't put people on pedestals to avoid being let down.

Key Takeaway

Accept flaws; lower expectations.

Themes

humility expectations humanity

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • public figures
  • leadership
  • mentorship

Key Concepts

idealization disappointment psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance admiration with realistic expectations?
  • What risks arise from de‑idealizing others?
A Different Perspective

Even without idealization, disappointment can still occur when reality falls short.

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