"Each concession we make is accompanied by an inner diminution of which we are not immediately conscious"

This quote by Emile M. Cioran speaks to the idea that when we make concessions, we are typically uninformed of the effect it has on our inner selves. It suggests that when we give in to something, we are not only making a compromise in the external world, but we are also making a compromise within ourselves. This inner diminution can be seen as a loss of self-respect, a weakening of our convictions, or a surrendering of our autonomy. It is a subtle yet powerful kind of self-sabotage that can have long-lasting effects. Cioran's quote functions as a reminder to be conscious of the options we make and to be familiar with the possible inner cost of our decisions. We must aim to make decisions that are in alignment with our values and beliefs, and to be conscious of the impact our options have on our inner selves.