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Motives Quote by Dick Francis

“To be logical you have to dig up and face your own hidden motives and emotions, and of course they're hidden principally because you don't want to face them. So...um...it's easier to let your basement feelings run the upper storeys, so to speak, and the result is quarrels, love, opinions…” quote by Dick Francis
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““To be logical you have to dig up and face your own hidden motives and emotions, and of course they're hidden principally because you don't want to face them. So...um...it's easier to let your basement feelings run the upper storeys, so to speak, and the result is quarrels, love, opinions, anorexia, philanthropy... almost anything you can think of. I just like to know what's going on down there, to pick out why I truly want to do things, that's all. Then I can do them, or not. Whichever.””

Dick Francis

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Art of Crime Writing, Dick Francis, 1994

Understanding and confronting hidden motives and emotions is essential for logical decision‑making and authentic behavior.

In simple terms: Face your hidden motives to act logically.

Key Takeaway

Reveal and evaluate inner drives before acting.

Themes

self‑awareness psychology decision making authenticity

Mood

introspective thoughtful

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • creative work
  • conflict resolution
  • health choices

Key Concepts

motivation emotional intelligence cognitive bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden motives are influencing your current choices?
  • How might confronting them change your actions?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring hidden motives can lead to unintended consequences and self‑deception.

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