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About this quote

What does it mean?
Whining usually annoys, but some people do it with such charm it works.
In plain terms
It takes real talent to complain in a way people enjoy.
What can you take from it?
Charisma can make even negative behavior appealing.

Where it applies

  • public speaking
  • social dynamics
  • negotiation

Putting it to work

  • master tone
  • build rapport
  • avoid annoyance

Questions to consider

  • How do you make requests appealing?
  • Is complaining ever good?

Another view

Relying on this trait can backfire if overused.

More from F. Scott Fitzgerald

  1. If you're strong enough, there are no precedents.

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  2. Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.

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  3. I was the spark that lit up Flaming Youth, Colleen Moore was the torch. What little things we are to have caused all that trouble.

    Permalink to quote #75

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