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It is not good to want a thing too much. It sometimes…

“It is not good to want a thing too much. It sometimes drives the luck away. You must want it just enough, and you must be very tactful with Gods or the gods.” quote by John Steinbeck
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“It is not good to want a thing too much. It sometimes drives the luck away. You must want it just enough, and you must be very tactful with Gods or the gods.”

John Steinbeck

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Desire must be balanced; excessive longing can repel success, while modest wants invite favorable outcomes.

In simple terms: Balance desire and humility.

Key Takeaway

Aim for measured ambition.

Themes

desire balance humility

Mood

hopeful cautious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • goal setting
  • career planning
  • relationships
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

psychology philosophy spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How much desire is healthy?
  • What tactics keep desire in check?
A Different Perspective

Too little desire may lead to complacency.

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