Goal Quote by Eleanor Roosevelt
““Happiness is not a goal, it is a by-product. Paradoxically, the one sure way not to be happy is deliberately to map out a way of life in which one would please oneself completely and exclusively. For what keeps our interest in life and makes us look forward to tomorrow is giving pleasure to other people.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Women’s Rights Conference, 1940
Happiness arises from serving others, not from self‑centered goals; focusing solely on personal pleasure hinders true joy.
In simple terms: Joy comes from helping others.
Serve others to find joy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- community work
- teaching
- mentoring
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What can you do today to help someone?
- How does serving others change your mood?
Self‑focus can still bring fulfillment for balanced life.