Every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote by Marcus Aurelius highlights an interesting paradox in human nature. On one hand, individuals have a natural inclination to prioritize their own well-being and self-interests above others. We have an inherent love for ourselves and tend to place our own needs and desires at the forefront. This self-love is a fundamental aspect of our nature.
However, the second part of the quote reveals an intriguing contradiction. Despite loving ourselves more than anyone else, we often undervalue our own opinions and judgments. We seek external validation and approval from others, attaching greater importance to their perspectives and evaluations of us. This phenomenon can be attributed to our social nature and the inherent desire for acceptance within a community or society.
The opinion of others holds weight in our lives because we crave belongingness and fear rejection. We may value external validation as a measure of our worth or competence, relying on the opinions of others to shape our self-perception. This tendency can sometimes lead to a diminished sense of self and an overreliance on external validation, hindering our ability to cultivate a strong and authentic self-identity.
Recognizing this paradox allows us to reflect on the importance of self-acceptance and self-validation. While seeking feedback and considering different perspectives can be valuable for personal growth, it is crucial to strike a balance. Valuing our own opinions, thoughts, and aspirations is essential for building self-confidence, making autonomous decisions, and cultivating a genuine sense of self-worth. By embracing our own opinions and recognizing their value, we can navigate the delicate balance between self-love and the opinions of others.
In essence, this quote encourages us to strike a harmonious equilibrium between self-acceptance and the external world, reminding us of the significance of valuing our own thoughts and opinions while also acknowledging the influence of others in our lives.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others." was said by Marcus Aurelius (Bio / Quotes). Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who ruled from AD 161 until his death in AD 180.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
