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About this quote

What does it mean?
Being too kind can make you lose respect; sometimes firmness is needed to command authority.
In plain terms
Being too kind can make people lose respect for you.
What can you take from it?
Kindness must be balanced with boundaries.

Where it applies

  • management
  • parenting
  • friendships

Putting it to work

  • set clear boundaries
  • expect reciprocity

Questions to consider

  • Have you lost respect by being too kind?
  • When is firmness more effective than kindness?

Another view

Kindness often builds respect better than fear.

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