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If a man knows precisely what he can do to you or what epithet he can hurl against you in order to make you lose your temper, your equilibrium, then he can always keep you under subjection.
Howard Thurman
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Interpretation

What this quote means

To maintain control over someone, one must know their triggers and weaknesses.

This quote by Howard Thurman emphasizes the importance of understanding how others can manipulate our emotions and reactions. By being aware of the things that upset us or cause us to lose composure, we become more vulnerable to control and subjugation. It suggests that emotional resilience and self-awareness are vital for personal empowerment and freedom from the influence of others.

Themes

ControlEmotionsManipulationSelf-AwarenessEquilibrium

In practice

Example use cases

During a leadership workshop to illustrate the importance of emotional intelligence.

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There must be always remaining in every life, some place for the singing of angels, some place for that which in itself is breathless and beautiful.
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