Attention Quote by Christian D. Larson
“When anyone is going wrong, it is a mistake to warn him not to go further. It is also a mistake to leave him alone. The proper course is to call his attention to something better, and frame our conversation in such a way that he becomes wholly absorbed in the better. He will then forget his old mistakes, his old faults and his old desires, and will give all his life and power to the building of that better which has engaged his new interest.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Great Within, 1919
When someone errs, don’t just warn them or ignore them; instead, guide them toward a better path that captures their full attention, causing them to abandon past faults.
In simple terms: Guide mistakes toward a compelling better goal, not just criticism.
Key Takeaway
Redirect focus to inspiring alternatives.
Themes
growth
guidance
psychology
motivation
leadership
Mood
encouraging
thoughtful
Type
self‑help
motivational
When to use this quote
- coaching sessions
- team meetings
- personal development
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
behavior change
attention focus
intrinsic motivation
positive framing
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a better alternative truly absorbing?
- How to sustain interest after the shift?
A Different Perspective
People may resist change if the new vision isn’t compelling enough.
![“I went to a mosque in Philadelphia with [my wife] in December 24, 1999. And we we went to this mosque in Philly, and I just had such a strong reaction to the prayer. And I was really emotionally - I felt really grounded at that time. And so to be in this prayer and the imam is doing the prayer in…” quote by Mahershala Ali](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d31/mahershala-ali-6687_attention_i-went-to-a-mosque-in-philadelphia-with_3083.jpg)
