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About this quote

What does it mean?
He advises helping others even when it risks harming your own interests or reputation.
In plain terms
Be helpful even if it hurts you.
What can you take from it?
Help others even when it costs you personally.

Where it applies

  • workplace
  • friendship
  • daily choices

Putting it to work

  • volunteering
  • offering support
  • setting boundaries

Questions to consider

  • What is a time you helped at a cost?
  • Where should you draw the line?

Another view

Unlimited self-sacrifice can lead to burnout or exploitation.

More from Jean Cocteau

  1. Find first, seek later.

    Permalink to quote #64
  2. Compromise yourself. Obscure your own trail.

    Permalink to quote #66
  3. Hasten slowly. Run faster than beauty.

    Permalink to quote #63

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