Find explanation, book, origin, and summary of quote – Every act you perform in life is driven by a simple truth, the need to feel appreciated.
We do more than what is required when we feel that we are valued. When someone appreciates you, you feel motivated and energized, and it also brings meaning to what we do. When you make others feel valued, you inspire them to do their best.
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Meaning
Quote suggests that the deepest, most fundamental driver behind our actions is the desire to feel valued, seen, and appreciated by others.
Explanation
That extra hour you put in at work? It’s not just for the paycheck, it’s to get appreciation from your boss. The thoughtful gift you give your partner? It’s to see that genuine smile of appreciation. We’re social creatures, hardwired for connection, and appreciation is the currency of that connection. It’s the signal that says, “You matter. Your effort was seen.”
Summary
| Category | Life (28) |
|---|---|
| Topics | appreciation (8), behavior (10), human nature (1), motivation (13) |
| Style | clear (16), didactic (23) |
| Mood | honest (3), reflective (21) |
Origin & Factcheck
This is paraphrased quote and the exact line in book is , “Every act you have ever performed since the day you were born was performed because you wanted something” does appear in How to Win Friends and Influence People.
However, Carnegie does express the same idea in multiple places. The closest thematic match is in Part One, Chapter 2: “The Big Secret of Dealing with People.” where, he writes about the human desire to feel important and appreciated, which is the core meaning behind this quote.
| Author | Dale Carnegie (65) |
|---|---|
| Book | How to Win Friends and Influence People (34) |
Author Bio
Dale Carnegie (1888), an American writer received worldwide recognition for his influential books on relationship, leadership, and public speaking. Among his timeless classics, the Dale Carnegie book list includes How to Win Friends and Influence People is the most influential which inspires millions even today.
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Where is this quotation located?
| Every act you perform in life is done for one reason, to gain appreciation |
| Publication: 1936, ISBN: 9780671723651, Number of pages: 280, Revised Edition 1981 |
| Part One: Fundamental Techniques in Handling People, Chapter 2 He Who Can Do This Has the Whole World with Him, Page 31 |
Context
Every act you have ever performed since the day you were born was performed because you wanted something. How about the time you gave a large contribution to the Red Cross?
If you hadn’t wanted that feeling more than you wanted your money, you would not have made the contribution. Of course, you might have made the contribution because you were ashamed to refuse or because a customer asked you to do it.
Usage Examples
So how do you actually use this? It’s a game-changer in a few key areas:
- For Leaders & Managers: Instead of just pointing out errors, make it a habit to genuinely acknowledge the hard work your team puts in. You’ll be shocked at how much more engaged they become.
- In Personal Relationships: Don’t just assume your partner knows that you appreciate them. Say it. Thank them for the small, everyday things. It reinforces the bond in a profound way.
- For Sales & Marketing: Frame your marketing message such that the customer feel seen and understood. Show appreciation for their business, and they’ll keep coming back.
To whom it appeals?
| Audience | leaders (147), psychologists (9), self help readers (4), students (214) |
|---|---|
This quote can be used in following contexts: personal development books,psychology lectures,motivational training,leadership classes,ethics programs
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Common Questions
Question: Does this mean all our actions are selfish?
Answer: Not at all. It’s a matter of motivation. Even selfless acts, like charity, often come with an internal reward, the feeling of being a good person, which is a form of self-appreciation.
Question: What about intrinsic motivation? Don’t people do things just for the love of it?
Answer: Intrinsic motivation is huge. But think about an artist who loves to paint. If they never, ever received a single compliment or had their work seen, that intrinsic drive would likely diminish over time. Appreciation is what fuels the fire.
Question: Is this just about verbal praise?
Answer: Absolutely not. Appreciation can be a promotion, a respectful listening ear, a thoughtful gesture, or simply your full, undivided attention. The form is less important than the genuine interest to appreciate their goodness.