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Ability Quote by Sheena Iyengar

“One could even argue that we have a duty to create and pass on stories about choice because once a person knows such stories, they can’t be taken away from him. He may lose his possessions, his home, his loved ones, but if he holds on to a story about choice, he retains the ability to practice…” quote by Sheena Iyengar
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““One could even argue that we have a duty to create and pass on stories about choice because once a person knows such stories, they can’t be taken away from him. He may lose his possessions, his home, his loved ones, but if he holds on to a story about choice, he retains the ability to practice choice.””

Sheena Iyengar

About This Quote

Source Speech: TED Talk “The Art of Choosing”, 2012

Stories about choice empower individuals to retain agency despite material loss.

In simple terms: Stories preserve the ability to choose.

Key Takeaway

Hold onto empowering narratives.

Themes

choice agency resilience

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal loss
  • refugee crisis
  • career transition
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

narrative power psychology of autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do stories influence your decisions?
  • What story of choice has shaped you?
A Different Perspective

Stories may not translate into actionable choices without support.

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