Skip to content

Amused Quote by Samuel Johnson

“A man should be careful never to tell tales of himself to his own disadvantage. People may be amused at the time, but they will be remembered, and brought out against him upon some subsequent occasion.” quote by Samuel Johnson
Download Open image
“A man should be careful never to tell tales of himself to his own disadvantage. People may be amused at the time, but they will be remembered, and brought out against him upon some subsequent occasion.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Idler, 1759

Being overly self‑disclosing can create material that others later use against you, harming reputation and influence.

In simple terms: Self‑disclosure can backfire.

Key Takeaway

Guard personal stories that could be weaponized.

Themes

privacy reputation trust communication

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political speech
  • business negotiations
  • personal relationships
  • online posting

Key Concepts

self‑presentation social risk image management

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you share personal details that could be used later?
  • How can you protect your reputation while being authentic?
A Different Perspective

People may still share your story despite warnings.

2.2 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Samuel Johnson

Explore all 1,998 Samuel Johnson quotes

More Amused quotes

Browse all 162 Amused quotes