How many on their deathbeds wished they'd spent more time at the office - or watching TV? The answer is, No one.
Stephen CoveyRead
We judge ourselves by our intentions. And others by their actions.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We tend to evaluate our own motives more kindly than we do the actions of others.
This quote by Stephen Covey highlights the common human tendency to view our own intentions in a positive light, while being critical of others based on their actions. It suggests that people often give themselves the benefit of the doubt regarding their motivations, but lack the same understanding when evaluating others, thus pointing to a disparity in judgment that can lead to misunderstanding and conflict in relationships.
Themes
JudgmentIntentionActionRelationshipsPerception
In practice
Example use cases
In a seminar about effective communication, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of understanding different perspectives.
More from Stephen Covey
All quotes βIf you want to have a more pleasant, cooperative teenager, be a more understanding, empathic, consistent, loving parent. If you want to have more freedom, more latitude in your job, be a more responsible, a more helpful, a more contributing employee.
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Listen with your eyes for feelings.
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If we live out of our memory, we're tied to the past and to that which is finite. When we live out of our imagination, _x000D_ we're tied to that which is infinite.
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Synergy is the highest activity of life; it creates new untapped alternatives; it values and exploits the mental, emotional, and psychological differences between people.
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Keep in mind that you are always saying "no" to something. If it isn't to the apparent and urgent things in your life, it is probably to the most fundamental, highly important things.
Stephen CoveyRead
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