The common idea that success spoils people by making them vain, egotistic and self-complacent is erroneous; on the contrary it makes them, for the most part, humble, tolerant and kind.
W. Somerset MaughamRead
Unconsciously, perhaps, we treasure the power we have over people by their regard for our opinion of them, and we hate those upon whom we have no such influence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We often value our influence over others and may dislike those we cannot influence.
This quote by W. Somerset Maugham reflects a deeper psychological insight into human relationships, suggesting that our self-worth can be tied to the power we hold over others through their perception of us. It suggests that influence and admiration can create a false sense of importance, leading to a disdain for those who do not conform to our expectations or desires, as we find our own significance in the regard others have for our opinions.
Themes
InfluenceOpinionPowerRelationshipsRegard
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting, I might use this quote to discuss the importance of mutual respect in relationships.
More from W. Somerset Maugham
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Are you sure you can prevent yourself from falling in love one of these days? Such things do happen, you know, even to the most prudent men.' Simon gave him a strange, one might even have thought a hostile, look. I should tear it out of my heart as I'd wrench out of my mouth a rotten tooth.
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I don't think of the past. The only thing that matters is the everlasting present.
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The world is quickly bored by the recital of misfortune, and willing avoids the sight of distress.
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There in the mist, enormous, majestic, silent and terrible, stood the Great Wall of China. Solitarily, with the indifference of nature herself, it crept up the mountain side and slipped down to the depth of the valley.
W. Somerset MaughamRead
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