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Self-absorption in all its forms kills empathy, let alone compassion. When we focus on ourselves, our world contracts as our problems and preoccupations loom large. But when we focus on others, our world expands. Our own problems drift to the periphery of the mind and so seem smaller, and we increase our capacity for connection - or compassionate action.
Daniel Goleman
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Focusing on others fosters empathy and reduces self-centeredness.

This quote by Daniel Goleman emphasizes the importance of empathy over self-absorption. When we are overly focused on our own issues and worries, we limit our perspective and compassion; however, when we shift our focus to others, we not only mitigate our own concerns but also enhance our ability to connect and act compassionately, broadening our world and our understanding of human experience.

Themes

EmpathySelf-AbsorptionCompassionConnectionFocus

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about community service, one might say this quote to emphasize the importance of helping others.

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Companies in the East put a lot more emphasis on human relationships, while those from the West focus on the product, the bottom line. Westerners appear to have more of a need for achievement, while in the East there's more need for affiliation.
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What really matters for success, character, happiness and life long achievements is a definite set of emotional skills - your EQ - not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests.
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