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Abuse Quote by Sharon Salzberg

“Sometimes people in abusive situations think they’re responsible for the other person’s happiness or that they’re going to fix them and make them feel better. The practice of equanimity teaches that it’s not all up to you to make someone else happy.” quote by Sharon Salzberg
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““Sometimes people in abusive situations think they’re responsible for the other person’s happiness or that they’re going to fix them and make them feel better. The practice of equanimity teaches that it’s not all up to you to make someone else happy.””

Sharon Salzberg

About This Quote

Source Book: “Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness” by Sharon Salzberg, 1995

We often feel responsible for others’ happiness, but equanimity reminds us that each person’s joy is their own duty.

In simple terms: You’re not fully responsible for others’ happiness.

Key Takeaway

Practice compassion without over‑identifying.

Themes

compassion responsibility equanimity

Mood

calm reflective

Type

spiritual self‑help

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • therapy
  • family
  • community

Key Concepts

interdependence emotional boundaries

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you set emotional limits?
  • When does caring become codependency?
A Different Perspective

Over‑responsibility can lead to burnout; balance is needed.

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