Accustomed Quote by Jacques Barzun
“Vanity is a static thing. It puts it faith in what it has, and is easily wounded. Pride is active, and satisfied only with what it can do, hence accustomed not to feel small stings.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays on the History of Ideas, Jacques Barzun, 1965
Vanity clings to existing status and is fragile; pride is driven by capability and resilient to minor setbacks.
In simple terms: Vanity is fragile; pride is resilient.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate pride through action, not reliance on status.
Themes
pride
vanity
self‑esteem
resilience
Mood
reflective
motivational
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- personal development
- leadership challenges
- public speaking
Key Concepts
psychology
identity
self‑concept
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you base self‑worth on achievements or on external validation?
- How can you balance confidence with humility?
A Different Perspective
Pride can become arrogance if unchecked.
![“[Neurotic] pride is both so vulnerable and so precious that it also must be protected in the future. The neurotic may build an elaborate system of avoidances in the hope of circumventing future hurts. This too is a process that goes on automatically. He is not aware of wanting to avoid an activity…” quote by Karen Horney](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4fb/karen-horney-12931_inertia_neurotic-pride-is-both-so-vulnerable-and_2189516.jpg)
