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Friendship Quote by Anna Quindlen

“There is so much obligatory generosity to being a good mother, a good wife, a good friend. Solitude is an acceptable form of selfishness.” quote by Anna Quindlen
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““There is so much obligatory generosity to being a good mother, a good wife, a good friend. Solitude is an acceptable form of selfishness.””

Anna Quindlen

About This Quote

Source Essay: The New York Times, 2010

She argues that self‑care through solitude is a legitimate, even necessary, form of selfishness amid societal expectations.

In simple terms: Being alone can be healthy selfishness.

Key Takeaway

Allow yourself alone time.

Themes

self‑care boundaries solitude

Mood

thoughtful calm

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • marriage
  • friendship
  • career planning

Key Concepts

Personal autonomy social expectations healthy selfishness

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is solitude beneficial?
  • How do you balance duty and self?
A Different Perspective

Too much solitude can lead to isolation.

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