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Approach Quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne

“When individuals approach one another with deep purposes on both sides they seldom come at once to the matter which they have most at heart. They dread the electric shock of a too sudden contact with it.” quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne
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“When individuals approach one another with deep purposes on both sides they seldom come at once to the matter which they have most at heart. They dread the electric shock of a too sudden contact with it.”

Nathaniel Hawthorne

About This Quote

Source Novel: "The Scarlet Letter", 1850

Deep, mutual purpose often delays confronting core issues due to fear of sudden confrontation.

In simple terms: People avoid confronting core issues.

Key Takeaway

Address core topics directly.

Themes

communication fear intimacy delay

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

observational critical

When to use this quote

  • counseling
  • team meetings
  • personal conversations

Key Concepts

psychology relationship dynamics conflict avoidance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we fear sudden emotional contact?
  • How can we approach sensitive topics safely?
A Different Perspective

Avoidance can cause lingering tension.

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