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About this quote

What does it mean?
Negative passions like slander and envy often drive human behavior.
In plain terms
People often act out of envy, slander, or revenge.
What can you take from it?
Be aware that hidden negative motives shape actions.

Where it applies

  • interpersonal conflict
  • workplace dynamics
  • analysis

Putting it to work

  • look for hidden motives
  • defend against slander
  • manage envy in teams

Questions to consider

  • What drives your own actions?
  • How do you spot hidden motives?

Another view

Many people act from positive or neutral motives too.

More from Napoleon Bonaparte

  1. Better to have a known enemy than a forced ally.

    Permalink to quote #63
  2. Ces terribles chevaux gris! Comme ils travaillent!

    Permalink to quote #65
  3. Better not to have been born than to live without glory.

    Permalink to quote #62

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