Oneself Quote by Doris Lessing
“There is only one real sin and that is to persuade oneself that the second best is anything but second best.”
About This Quote
The only true wrongdoing is convincing yourself that an inferior option is actually superior, denying reality.
In simple terms: Self‑deception about quality is the real sin.
Key Takeaway
Honest appraisal prevents moral error.
Themes
self‑deception
integrity
valuation
truth
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
ethical
reflective
When to use this quote
- making investment decisions
- choosing a career path
- evaluating relationships
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
ethical self‑assessment
Practical Applications
- apply objective criteria
- seek external feedback
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms help you recognize self‑deception?
- When is it acceptable to settle for a lesser option?
A Different Perspective
Sometimes accepting a second‑best option is pragmatic when the best is unattainable.
![“The self is defined psychologically as the psychic totality of the individual. Anything that a [person] postulates as being a greater totality than [oneself] can become a symbol of the self. For this reason the symbol of the self is not always as total as the definition would require.” quote by Carl Jung](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/251/carl-jung-274_defined_the-self-is-defined-psychologically-as-t_7148.jpg)
