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About this quote

What does it mean?
Sakharov questions the purpose and results of his work despite not being a politician.
In plain terms
I worry about the point and outcome of the work I do.
What can you take from it?
Always question the purpose and impact of your actions.

Where it applies

  • interviews
  • personal reflections
  • diaries

Putting it to work

  • evaluate your work
  • seek impact

Questions to consider

  • Is your work serving a greater goal?
  • What results do you expect from your efforts?

Another view

Over-questioning purpose can lead to paralysis.

More from Andrei Sakharov

  1. For me, the moral difficulties lie in the continual pressure brought to bear on my friends and immediate family, pressure which is not directed against me pers…

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  2. I grew up in a large communal apartment where most of the rooms were occupied by my family and relations and only a few by outsiders. The house was pervaded by…

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  3. Both now and for always, I intend to hold fast to my belief in the hidden strength of the human spirit.

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