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Character building Quote by Kay Redfield Jamison

“Two other patients were waiting for their doctors, which only added to my sense of indignity and embarrassment at finding myself with the roles reversed--character building, no doubt, but I was beginning to tire or all the opportunities to build character at the expense of peace, predictability…” quote by Kay Redfield Jamison
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““Two other patients were waiting for their doctors, which only added to my sense of indignity and embarrassment at finding myself with the roles reversed--character building, no doubt, but I was beginning to tire or all the opportunities to build character at the expense of peace, predictability, and a normal life.””

Kay Redfield Jamison

About This Quote

Source Memoir: An Unquiet Mind, 1995

Feeling trapped by endless self‑improvement demands, losing peace and normalcy in the process.

In simple terms: Too much focus on growth erodes peace.

Key Takeaway

Balance growth with stability.

Themes

mental health self‑growth stress identity balance

Mood

reflective somber

Type

psychological autobiographical

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • personal journaling
  • career development

Key Concepts

psychology self‑care life planning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you know when self‑improvement is harmful?
  • What practices restore predictability?
A Different Perspective

Growth can become a source of anxiety.

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