Skip to content

Asks Quote by Albert Schweitzer

“You must not expect anything from others. It's you, of yourself, of whom you must ask a lot. Only from oneself has one the right to ask everything and anything. This way it's up to you...your own choices...what you get from others remains a present, a gift.” quote by Albert Schweitzer
Download Open image
“You must not expect anything from others. It's you, of yourself, of whom you must ask a lot. Only from oneself has one the right to ask everything and anything. This way it's up to you...your own choices...what you get from others remains a present, a gift.”

Albert Schweitzer

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Philosophy of Civilization, 1923

Self‑reliance is essential; we must look inward for answers, treating others’ help as a gift, not a right.

In simple terms: Rely on yourself, view others’ aid as a gift.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate inner responsibility.

Themes

self‑reliance gratitude personal growth

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • personal relationships
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

existentialism ethical autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance self‑reliance with accepting help?
  • What gifts have you received that changed your path?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on self can lead to isolation and neglect of healthy interdependence.

3.7 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Albert Schweitzer

Explore all 400 Albert Schweitzer quotes

More Asks quotes

Browse all 6,930 Asks quotes