Applause Quote by Sydney J. Harris
“Nice things are done for our own sake, not for the sake of others. The pleasure must reside in the performance, not in the applause. Good deeds are, in a deeper psychological way, a favor to oneself. If this is not grasped, then our whole sense of personal relationships becomes warped.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Psychology of Altruism" by Sydney J. Harris, 1970
True fulfillment comes from acting for personal satisfaction, not external validation; self‑directed goodwill nurtures healthy relationships.
In simple terms: Do good for yourself, not for applause.
Key Takeaway
Seek inner reward, not external praise.
Themes
self‑growth
authenticity
relationships
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- team projects
- personal habits
- creative work
Key Concepts
psychology
motivation
altruism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does inner satisfaction affect your connections?
- Can you find joy without audience?
A Different Perspective
May neglecting others' needs lead to selfishness.
![“All the shows we did pre-airdate, and I'd come out - "Rob Lowe!" - and it was [Offers bored applause.] After the show aired? I came out - "Rob Lowe!" - and the place was, like, bedlam. And then the next week, they wouldn't let anyone under the age of 20 into the audience. And I'm going, "So that's…” quote by Rob Lowe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/66b/rob-lowe-855_age_all-the-shows-we-did-pre-airdate-and-i-d_31307.jpg)
