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Abandon Quote by Martha Beck

“Our ideas about love and attractiveness are so primal, our need for belonging so intense, that most of us are loath to abandon our favorite beliefs on these issues. If you've ever let yourself feel lovable and lovely, only to be deeply hurt, you may see accepting your own body as a setup for…” quote by Martha Beck
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“Our ideas about love and attractiveness are so primal, our need for belonging so intense, that most of us are loath to abandon our favorite beliefs on these issues. If you've ever let yourself feel lovable and lovely, only to be deeply hurt, you may see accepting your own body as a setup for severe emotional wounding.”

Martha Beck

About This Quote

Source Book: Stealing Fire from the Gods, Martha Beck, 2016

Our deep‑seated need for love and belonging makes us cling to familiar ideas about attractiveness, even when they cause pain.

In simple terms: We cling to love beliefs because we fear loss and hurt.

Key Takeaway

Question your assumptions about love and belonging.

Themes

love belonging self‑image

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • dating
  • therapy
  • self‑esteem work
  • body positivity

Key Concepts

psychology attachment theory social conditioning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What belief about love holds you back?
  • How can you nurture belonging without clinging?
A Different Perspective

Beliefs can be protective but also limit growth.

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