Cigarette Quote by Barbara Ehrenreich
“I complain to one of my fellow servers that I don't understand how she can go so long without food. "Well, I don't understand how you can go so long without a cigarette," she responds in a tone of reproach. Because work is what you do for others; smoking is what you do for yourself.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Cost of Work” (The New York Times, 2015)
The author contrasts work for others with personal habits, highlighting how self‑care (like smoking) differs from serving others.
In simple terms: Work serves others; personal habits serve self.
Key Takeaway
Recognize boundaries between duty and self‑care.
Themes
labor
self‑care
habit
social critique
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
essay
social commentary
When to use this quote
- customer service
- stress management
- habit reduction programs
Key Concepts
economics
behavioral health
ethical labor
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance serving others with personal needs?
- What habits support both work and health?
A Different Perspective
Self‑care habits can become harmful.
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