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Conviction Quote by John Patrick Shanley

“Doubt requires more courage than conviction does, and more energy; because conviction is a resting place and doubt is infinite – it is a passionate exercise. You may come out of my play uncertain. You may want to be sure. Look down on that feeling. We’ve got to learn to live with a full measure of…” quote by John Patrick Shanley
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“Doubt requires more courage than conviction does, and more energy; because conviction is a resting place and doubt is infinite – it is a passionate exercise. You may come out of my play uncertain. You may want to be sure. Look down on that feeling. We’ve got to learn to live with a full measure of uncertainty. There is no last word. That’s the silence under the chatter of our time.”

John Patrick Shanley

About This Quote

Source Play: Doubt, John Patrick Shanley, 2005

Doubt forces us to confront uncertainty, demanding more courage and energy than certainty, which can become complacent.

In simple terms: Doubt needs more courage than certainty.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty and keep questioning.

Themes

courage uncertainty self‑reflection

Mood

reflective intense thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical motivational literary

When to use this quote

  • making decisions
  • creative work
  • personal growth
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology risk tolerance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance doubt and confidence?
  • When does doubt become counterproductive?
A Different Perspective

Too much doubt can paralyze action and erode confidence.

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