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About this quote

What does it mean?
Pride destroys its goal by making the esteem‑seeking man contemptible.
In plain terms
Pride leads to contempt for those who seek respect.
What can you take from it?
Avoid pride; it undermines the respect you seek.

Where it applies

  • personal development
  • leadership training

Putting it to work

  • cultivating humility
  • monitoring ego

Questions to consider

  • When does pride become harmful?
  • How can one maintain confidence without pride?

Another view

Some level of pride can be motivating if balanced.

More from Henry, 1st Viscount Bolingbroke St John

  1. Patriotism must be founded on great principals and supported by great virtue.

    Permalink to quote #7
  2. The greatest art of a politician is to render vice serviceable to the cause of virtue.

    Permalink to quote #9
  3. The landed men are the true owners of our political vessel, the moneyed men are no more than passengers in it

    Permalink to quote #6

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