Character Quote by Quentin Crisp
“The consuming desire of most human beings is deliberately to plant their whole life in the hands of some other person. I would describe this method of searching for happiness as immature. Development of character consists solely in moving toward self-sufficiency.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Search for Happiness, 1975
Relying on others for happiness is immature; true character growth comes from becoming self‑sufficient.
In simple terms: Dependence on others hinders personal development; aim for independence.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate self‑reliance and personal responsibility.
Themes
independence
self‑growth
philosophy
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- career decisions
- financial planning
- emotional health
- life goals
Key Concepts
maturity
autonomy
character development
Questions to Reflect On
- What areas of your life need more independence?
- How can healthy interdependence be balanced?
A Different Perspective
Complete self‑sufficiency is unrealistic; interdependence also has value.
![“[…] we humans, as long as we live, are generally incapable of freeing ourselves from a certain ardent searching and longing, and should not even strive to; that our longing for happiness seems far more beautiful, always far more sensitive, more significant and all in all probably far more…” quote by Robert Walser](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4b2/robert-walser-6307_desire_we-humans-as-long-as-we-live-are-general_2327023.jpg)
