Approval Quote by Mark Twain
“The sole impulse which dictates and compels a man's every act: the imperious necessity of securing his own approval, in every emergency and at all costs… It is our only spur, our whip, our goad, our impelling power; we have no other.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Man That Corrupts, 1882
Human actions are driven by the need for self‑approval, a powerful internal motivator.
In simple terms: People act to please themselves above all.
Recognize and manage self‑approval drives.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- leadership
- ethical dilemmas
- stress management
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your decisions?
- Can external validation replace self‑approval?
Self‑approval can lead to selfishness.