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About this quote

What does it mean?
Trying too hard to appear natural prevents you from actually being natural.
In plain terms
Desiring to look natural makes you act unnatural.
What can you take from it?
Stop trying to impress others with your authenticity.

Where it applies

  • social gatherings
  • public speaking
  • dating

Putting it to work

  • focus on content not image
  • relax your posture
  • accept awkwardness

Questions to consider

  • Are you performing authenticity?
  • What happens if you stop trying?

Another view

Some situations require conscious effort to appear calm or natural.

More from Francois de La Rochefoucauld

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  2. Il est plus aise de connaitre l'homme en general que de connaitre un homme en particulier.

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  3. En amour, celui qui est gueri le premier est toujours le mieux gueri.

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