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Successful givers secure their oxygen masks before coming to the assistance of others. Although their motives may be less purely altruistic, their actions prove more altruistic, because they give more.
Adam Grant
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Interpretation

What this quote means

One must prioritize their own well-being before helping others.

This quote emphasizes the importance of self-care and personal well-being in order to effectively assist others. It suggests that those who take care of their needs first are often able to provide more significant help to others, even if their intentions are not purely selfless.

Themes

Self-CareAltruismHelping OthersWell-BeingSuccess

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about teamwork.

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