Children Quote by John D. MacDonald
“It's no good telling somebody they're trying too hard. It's very much like ordering a child to go stand in a corner for a half hour and never once think about elephants.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Deep End, John D. MacDonald, 1975
Criticizing excessive pressure, the quote likens it to absurd punishments that ignore real issues.
In simple terms: Pressuring people too much is pointless.
Key Takeaway
Avoid over‑controlling others.
Themes
communication
empathy
boundaries
Mood
irritated
reflective
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- parenting
- management
- relationships
- education
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you address the real issue instead of just imposing limits?
- What alternatives exist to punitive measures?
A Different Perspective
Ignoring underlying problems makes punishment ineffective.
![“The dividing line [between friends and acquaintances] is communication, I think. A friend is someone to whom you can say any jackass thing that enters your mind. With acquaintances, you are forever aware of their slightly unreal image of you, and to keep them content, you edit yourself to fit…” quote by John D. MacDonald](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/955/john-d-macdonald-8277_acquaintance_the-dividing-line-between-friends-and-ac_444661.jpg)
![“[To] me organized religion, the formalities and routines, [is] like being marched in formation to look at a sunset.” quote by John D. MacDonald](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aa3/john-d-macdonald-8277_formality_to-me-organized-religion-the-formalities_483678.jpg)
