Sensible Quote by William Dean Howells
““It's easy enough to be sensible for other people. But when it comes to myself, there I am! Especially, when I want to do what I oughtn't so much that it seems as if doing what I didn't want to do MUST be doing what I ought!””
About This Quote
Source Novel: A Modern Instance, William Dean Howells, 1886
People often follow rational advice for others but struggle to apply it to themselves, especially when desire conflicts with duty, leading to paradoxical self‑justification.
In simple terms: We find it easier to be sensible for others than for ourselves, especially when desire clashes with duty.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and align personal desires with responsibilities.
Themes
self‑awareness
conflict
duty
desire
Mood
reflective
conflicted
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- ethical dilemmas
- habit formation
Key Concepts
cognitive dissonance
self‑justification
Questions to Reflect On
- What internal conflicts prevent you from acting responsibly?
- How can you reconcile desire with duty?
A Different Perspective
Self‑justification can blind us to true motives and hinder growth.
