Disappointment Quote by Martha Gellhorn
““It is high time that I learn to be more careful about hope, a reckless emotion for travellers. The sensible approach would be to expect the worst, the very worst; that way you avoid grievous disappointment and who knows, with a tiny bit of luck, you might even have a moderately pleasant surprise, like the difference between hell and purgatory.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 1965
Hope is portrayed as a risky, unpredictable feeling; managing expectations by anticipating the worst can protect against deep disappointment while still allowing for modest positive outcomes.
In simple terms: Hope is risky; expect the worst to avoid pain.
Key Takeaway
Balance caution with openness to small joys.
Themes
caution
hope
expectation
disappointment
resilience
Mood
reflective
cautious
hopeful
Type
advice
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- travel planning
- personal relationships
- career decisions
- health crises
- financial investments
Key Concepts
psychology
risk management
optimism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you gauge when to lower expectations?
- What small positives can you seek despite expecting the worst?
A Different Perspective
Overly pessimistic outlook may lead to missed opportunities or chronic negativity.
