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About this quote

What does it mean?
People often say they are fine to hide their true struggles when asked about their well-being.
In plain terms
Saying you are fine might mean you are not.
What can you take from it?
Superficial greetings may mask real pain.

Where it applies

  • casual conversations
  • mental health check-ins
  • social gatherings

Putting it to work

  • active listening
  • asking deeper questions

Questions to consider

  • How do you respond to how are you?
  • Who can you really talk to?

Another view

Sometimes people genuinely mean fine.

More from Katharine Hepburn

  1. Barbara Walters: So, Kate, do you even own a skirt? Katharine Hepburn: I own one, Barbara. I shall wear it to your funeral.

    Permalink to quote #29
  2. Sometimes I wonder if men and women really suit each other. Perhaps they should live next door and just visit now and then.

    Permalink to quote #31
  3. Plain women know more about men than beautiful women do.

    Permalink to quote #28

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