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Advantage Quote by Marcus Aurelius

“Never esteem anything as of advantage to you that will make you break your word or lose your self-respect.” quote by Marcus Aurelius
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“Never esteem anything as of advantage to you that will make you break your word or lose your self-respect.”

Marcus Aurelius

About This Quote

Source Meditations, Book 2, circa 180 AD

One should never sacrifice integrity for perceived advantage, as self‑respect outweighs short‑term gains.

In simple terms: Don’t trade honor for gain.

Key Takeaway

Guard your word and self‑respect.

Themes

integrity self‑respect ethics

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • business negotiations
  • personal relationships
  • political decisions
  • leadership dilemmas

Key Concepts

Stoicism moral philosophy personal discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you faced a moral compromise?
  • What cost does losing self‑respect entail?
A Different Perspective

In competitive environments, compromises may seem necessary.

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