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Calling Quote by Lydia Davis

“No one is calling me. I can’t check the answering machine because I have been here all this time. If I go out, someone may call while I’m out. Then I can check the answering machine when I come back in.” quote by Lydia Davis
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“No one is calling me. I can’t check the answering machine because I have been here all this time. If I go out, someone may call while I’m out. Then I can check the answering machine when I come back in.”

Lydia Davis

About This Quote

Source Short story: "The Telephone" by Lydia Davis, 1995

A speaker hesitates to leave because they fear missing a call, illustrating self-imposed paralysis from overthinking.

In simple terms: Fear of missing out traps us in indecision.

Key Takeaway

Act despite uncertainty.

Themes

indecision fear communication

Mood

anxious reflective

Type

literary observational

When to use this quote

  • personal routine
  • work tasks
  • social media
  • waiting for news

Key Concepts

psychology self‑sabotage

Questions to Reflect On

  • What small step can you take despite uncertainty?
  • How does fear of missing out affect your daily choices?
A Different Perspective

Overthinking can prevent action even when stakes are low.

2.8 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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