Capable Quote by Doris Lessing
“What's terrible is to pretend that second-rate is first-rate. To pretend that you don't need love when you do; or you like your work when you know quite well you're capable of better.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: BBC Radio, 1975
Pretending mediocrity is excellence denies truth; denying love or satisfaction hides genuine needs.
In simple terms: False pretenses harm growth.
Key Takeaway
Embrace honesty about abilities and desires.
Themes
authenticity
self-awareness
growth
Mood
thoughtful
challenging
encouraging
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career development
- relationships
- creative projects
- leadership
- personal health
Key Concepts
existentialism
self-deception
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What areas of your life are you pretending are perfect?
- How would honesty change your relationships?
A Different Perspective
Denial can protect ego temporarily but stalls progress.
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
