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About this quote

What does it mean?
Most people live in quiet desperation, mistaking resignation for acceptance.
In plain terms
Quiet desperation is often hidden behind resignation.
What can you take from it?
Recognize and address hidden dissatisfaction.

Where it applies

  • therapy
  • career counseling

Putting it to work

  • self‑assessment
  • goal setting

Questions to consider

  • Do you feel quiet desperation?
  • What masks your true feelings?

Another view

Not everyone feels desperation; some are content.

More from Henry David Thoreau

  1. The eye may see for the hand, but not for the mind.

    Permalink to quote #102
  2. There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root, and it may be that he who bestows the largest amount of time and money…

    Permalink to quote #104
  3. It is so rare to meet with a man out-doors who cherishes a worthy thought in his mind, which is independent of the labor of his hands.

    Permalink to quote #101

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