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Attainment Quote by Thomas Carlyle

“It is in general more profitable to reckon up our defeats than to boast of our attainments.” quote by Thomas Carlyle
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“It is in general more profitable to reckon up our defeats than to boast of our attainments.”

Thomas Carlyle

About This Quote

Source Essay: Signs of the Times, 1849

Counting defeats teaches humility and growth, whereas boasting of successes breeds complacency and arrogance.

In simple terms: Defeats teach humility; boasting breeds arrogance.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility by acknowledging failures.

Themes

humility self-awareness growth reflection

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • career development
  • personal goal setting
  • team retrospectives
  • educational feedback

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology self-improvement

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defeats have shaped your current strengths?
  • How can you celebrate achievements without becoming complacent?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on failures can demoralize; balance is needed.

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