In the eyes of many people, giving doesn’t count unless it’s completely selfless. In reality, though, giving isn’t sustainable when it’s completely selfless.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote challenges the notion that giving must be entirely selfless to be considered valuable and underscores the importance of recognizing that sustainable giving often involves a balance between selflessness and self-care.
In many cultures and belief systems, selflessness is often idealized as the highest form of giving. It implies giving without any expectation of personal gain or recognition. While selfless acts of giving are certainly commendable, this quote suggests that they may not always be sustainable in the long term.
The quote acknowledges that for giving to be sustainable and effective over time, individuals need to consider their own well-being. It highlights the idea that maintaining a balance between giving to others and taking care of oneself is crucial. If individuals completely neglect their own needs and boundaries, they may eventually experience burnout, resentment, or an inability to continue giving.
This perspective encourages us to view giving as a dynamic and multifaceted concept. While selfless acts of generosity are significant, it is also essential to recognize that individuals need to prioritize self-care and maintain their own well-being to be able to continue giving in the long run.
In essence, this quote invites us to embrace a more holistic view of giving, one that acknowledges the importance of both selflessness and self-care. It reminds us that sustainable giving involves finding a balance that allows us to continue making positive contributions to others while also taking care of ourselves.
Who said the quote?
The quote "In the eyes of many people, giving doesn't count unless it's completely selfless. In reality, though, giving isn't sustainable when it's completely selfless." is often attributed to Adam Grant (Bio / Quotes). Adam Grant is an American organizational psychologist and author known for his books "Give and Take" and "Originals" and his TED Talks on motivation and success.
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.