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Attitude Quote by Harriet Lerner

“Although it's not useful to drown in despair, it's also not useful to keep a 'positive attitude' when this means concealing or denying real emotions.” quote by Harriet Lerner
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“Although it's not useful to drown in despair, it's also not useful to keep a 'positive attitude' when this means concealing or denying real emotions.”

Harriet Lerner

About This Quote

Source Book: The Dance of Anger, Harriet Lerner, 1985

Suppressing emotions under a forced positivity is unhelpful; authentic feeling is necessary for healing.

In simple terms: True emotions matter more than fake positivity.

Key Takeaway

Allow genuine feelings, not just optimism.

Themes

emotions authenticity mental health

Mood

empathetic thoughtful

Type

advice psychological

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • therapy sessions
  • stressful workday

Key Concepts

psychology selfawareness wellbeing

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you hidden feelings?
  • How can you honor your emotions?
A Different Perspective

Denial can worsen distress.

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