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Action Quote by Dwight D. Eisenhower

“make it a practice to avoid hating anyone. If someone's been guilty of despicable actions, especially toward me, I try to forget him. I used to follow a practice - somewhat contrived, I admit - to write the man's name on a piece of scrap paper, drop it into the lowest drawer of my desk, and say to…” quote by Dwight D. Eisenhower
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“make it a practice to avoid hating anyone. If someone's been guilty of despicable actions, especially toward me, I try to forget him. I used to follow a practice - somewhat contrived, I admit - to write the man's name on a piece of scrap paper, drop it into the lowest drawer of my desk, and say to myself: "That finishes the incident, and so far as I'm concerned, that fellow." The drawer became over the years a sort of private wastebasket for crumbled-up spite and discarded personalities.”

Dwight D. Eisenhower

About This Quote

Source Speech: Private Reflection, Dwight D. Eisenhower, 1950s

Letting go of grudges frees mental space and promotes emotional health.

In simple terms: Forget harmful people to stay calm.

Key Takeaway

Release resentment daily.

Themes

forgiveness mental health personal growth

Mood

reflective calm

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • personal journaling
  • stress management

Key Concepts

emotional regulation psychology mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you physically release a grudge?
  • What benefits arise from forgiving?
A Different Perspective

Holding onto anger can damage relationships and self‑esteem.

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