Answers Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“Instead of considering that the worst way to persuade or please others is to try thus strongly to please ourselves, and that to listen well and to answer well are some of the greatest charms we can have in conversation.”
About This Quote
True persuasion comes from listening and responding well, not from trying to please oneself.
In simple terms: Listen and answer well, not self‑pleasing, for better persuasion.
Key Takeaway
Focus on genuine conversation.
Themes
communication
humility
influence
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- negotiations
- friendship
- customer service
Key Concepts
active listening
authenticity
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you prioritize your needs over others?
- How can you practice listening?
A Different Perspective
Self‑pleasing can still dominate in competitive settings.
![“I like [Barak] Obama. I like him. So how far does rationality help to persuade anybody? You know, I'm not so sure.” quote by George Saunders](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da0/george-saunders-317_barak-obama_i-like-barak-obama-i-like-him-so-how-far_87954.jpg)
