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Above the clouds Quote by Erich Fromm

“As long as anyone believes that his ideal and purpose is outside him, that it is above the clouds, in the past or in the future, he will go outside himself and seek fulfillment where it cannot be found. He will look for solutions and answers at every point except where they can be found- in himself.” quote by Erich Fromm
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“As long as anyone believes that his ideal and purpose is outside him, that it is above the clouds, in the past or in the future, he will go outside himself and seek fulfillment where it cannot be found. He will look for solutions and answers at every point except where they can be found- in himself.”

Erich Fromm

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm, 1956

People who see purpose as external never find fulfillment, because true answers lie within themselves.

In simple terms: Seeking outside self prevents true fulfillment.

Key Takeaway

Look inward for purpose.

Themes

self‑discovery purpose inner peace

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career counseling
  • spiritual practice
  • personal growth
  • relationship building

Key Concepts

existentialism humanistic psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What internal resources are you overlooking?
  • How can you shift focus from external to internal?
A Different Perspective

External solutions often ignore inner resources.

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