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Reputation Quote by William Shakespeare

“Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, oft got without merit and lost without deserving. You have lost no reputation at all unless you repute yourself such a loser.” quote by William Shakespeare
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““Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, oft got without merit and lost without deserving. You have lost no reputation at all unless you repute yourself such a loser.””

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Henry IV, Part 2, 1598

Reputation depends on others' judgments, not self‑assessment, and is meaningless without personal belief.

In simple terms: Reputation only matters if you accept it.

Key Takeaway

Value self‑worth over others' opinions.

Themes

self‑esteem perception identity

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • career
  • public speaking
  • online presence

Key Concepts

social validation self‑concept

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you let others define you?
  • How can you build confidence without external validation?
A Different Perspective

Even without reputation, external judgments can still affect opportunities.

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