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If there is anything that we wish to change in the child, we should first examine it and see whether it is not something that could better be changed in ourselves.
Carl Jung
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Before seeking to change a child, reflect on whether the needed change is within ourselves.

This quote by Carl Jung emphasizes the importance of self-reflection when it comes to influencing others, particularly children. It suggests that if we notice something in a child that needs improvement or change, we should first look inwardly to consider whether it is a reflection of our own behaviors or shortcomings that need adjustment before we can expect to see change in them.

Themes

Self-ReflectionParentingChangeChildrenPersonal Growth

In practice

Example use cases

During a parenting workshop discussing effective strategies for child-rearing.

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I have treated many hundreds of patients. Among those in the second half of life - that is to say, over 35 - there has not been one whose problem in the last resort was not that of finding a religious outlook on life.
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Quote by Carl Jung | QuoteProject