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About this quote

What does it mean?
People only remember others when it benefits them to do so.
In plain terms
You get forgotten unless someone finds a use for you.
What can you take from it?
Utility drives memory and attention.

Where it applies

  • workplace relationships
  • politics
  • friendships

Putting it to work

  • be valuable to others
  • manage expectations
  • build genuine bonds

Questions to consider

  • Who remembers you only when it helps them?
  • Do you remember people only when convenient?

Another view

Some people remember others out of loyalty regardless of convenience.

More from Benjamin Disraeli

  1. No success in public life can compensate for failure in the home.

    Permalink to quote #212

  2. Nowadays, manners are easy and life is hard.

    Permalink to quote #214

  3. No man is regular in his attendance at the House of Commons until he is married.

    Permalink to quote #211

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