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About this quote

What does it mean?
Power feels more intense when we dominate someone emotionally than when we win their loyalty.
In plain terms
Breaking spirits feels more powerful than winning hearts.
What can you take from it?
Recognize that dominance often feels stronger than connection.

Where it applies

  • leadership
  • management
  • personal relationships

Putting it to work

  • power dynamics
  • ethical leadership
  • self control

Questions to consider

  • How do I seek power?
  • Is this healthy?

Another view

Winning hearts often leads to stronger lasting influence than breaking spirits.

More from Eric Hoffer

  1. Our quarrel with the world is an echo of the endless quarrel proceeding within us.

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  2. People who bite the hand that feeds them usually lick the boot that kicks them.

    Permalink to quote #187
  3. Our frustration is greater when we have much and want more than when we have nothing and want some. We are less dissatisfied when we lack many things than when…

    Permalink to quote #184

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