---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: I think it is easier to put yourself down…"
description: "\"I think it is easier to put yourself down before anyone else does. Or to laugh at yourself before anyone else does.\" — Ruth Jones"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/ruth-jones-5620_easier_i-think-it-is-easier-to-put-yourself-dow_1927257.png"
---

#  I think it is easier to put yourself down before anyone…

![“I think it is easier to put yourself down before anyone else does. Or to laugh at yourself before anyone else does.” quote by Ruth Jones](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/ruth-jones-5620_easier_i-think-it-is-easier-to-put-yourself-dow_1927257.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/ruth-jones-5620_easier_i-think-it-is-easier-to-put-yourself-dow_1927257.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/ruth-jones-5620_easier_i-think-it-is-easier-to-put-yourself-dow_1927257.png)

> “I think it is easier to put yourself down before anyone else does. Or to laugh at yourself before anyone else does.”

[Ruth Jones](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/ruth-jones/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Self‑deprecation can protect against external criticism and foster resilience.

**In simple terms:** Laughing at yourself first.

Key Takeaway

Use humor to deflect judgment.

Themes

self‑esteem humor resilience

Mood

lighthearted reflective cautious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

- public speaking
- social media
- team meetings
- performance reviews

Key Concepts

psychological defense social coping

Questions to Reflect On

- When is self‑critique helpful?
- How can you turn humor into growth?

A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on self‑mockery may erode confidence.

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