Buttons Quote by Studs Terkel
“I never drove a car. I'm hopeless that way. I press the wrong buttons on the tape recorder. But if the person I'm interviewing helps me out, that person feels needed. People need to feel needed.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Oral History of American Life, 1974
The speaker admits personal incompetence but finds purpose in helping others feel needed, highlighting the value of being useful to others.
In simple terms: Admitting personal flaws, the speaker finds meaning in helping others feel needed.
Key Takeaway
Seek ways to make others feel needed.
Themes
self-awareness
service
purpose
Mood
empathetic
introspective
Type
narrative
inspirational
When to use this quote
- interviewing
- volunteering
- teamwork
- leadership
Key Concepts
psychology
human connection
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance helping others with self-care?
- What does feeling needed mean to you?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on others for self-worth can be risky.
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