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One's philosophy is not best expressed in words; it is expressed in the choices one makes. In stopping to think through the meaning of what I have learned, there is much that I believe intensely, much I am unsure of. In the long run, we shape our lives and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And, the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility.

Eleanor Roosevelt#20

GrowthLifePhilosophyChoicesIdentityResponsibilitySelf

About this quote

What does it mean?
Life choices define philosophy and identity, making us responsible for ourselves.
In plain terms
Your choices show what you believe and you are responsible for them.
What can you take from it?
Accept responsibility for choices as they shape your life and character.

Where it applies

  • self-reflection
  • career decisions
  • moral dilemmas

Putting it to work

  • keep a decision journal
  • review past choices
  • set clear priorities

Questions to consider

  • What defines your path?
  • How do you own your mistakes?

Another view

External constraints often limit true freedom of choice.

More from Eleanor Roosevelt

  1. The most important thing in any relationship is not what you get but what you give.

    Permalink to quote #19
  2. One thing life has taught me: if you are interested, you never have to look for new interests. They come to you. ... All you need to do is to be curious, recep…

    Permalink to quote #21
  3. Up to a certain point it is good for us to know that there are people in the world who will give us love and unquestioned loyalty to the limit of their ability…

    Permalink to quote #18

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