"It's that wonderful old-fashioned idea that others come first and you come second. This was the whole ethic by which I was brought up. Others matter more than you do, so 'don't fuss, dear; get on with it.'"
About this Quote
Audrey Hepburn’s words evoke the selfless philosophy of a bygone era, where the values instilled in children placed the needs and comfort of others above one’s own. This ethic creates a framework for living that is grounded in empathy, humility, and grace. It is a call to move away from self-centeredness, instead encouraging an instinctive attentiveness to those around us. The phrase "others come first and you come second" is not just about acts of outward politeness or social obligation, but about cultivating an internal compass aligned with kindness and consideration.
Growing up with this mindset means learning to tune out the natural urge to put oneself forward at every opportunity. It’s a gentle discipline, a daily yielding of ego that in practice often translates into small but significant gestures, allowing someone else to speak before you, quietly offering support without expecting accolades, or letting go of typical anxieties about constantly asserting yourself. It does not mean ignoring your own needs entirely, but rather developing a habit of thinking beyond immediate self-interest. Hepburn refers to her upbringing as rooted in this ethic, suggesting it provided her with resilience and clarity.
Embedded in the phrase "don’t fuss, dear; get on with it" is a subtle encouragement not to become mired in self-pity, worry, or dramatization of hardship. There’s a certain stoicism and practicality implied, a belief in action over complaint, and in finding dignity through perseverance. In essence, there is both compassion and strength in this worldview: by putting others before oneself, we build deeper connections, broaden our perspective, and anchor ourselves in a sense of purpose larger than personal gain. Hepburn’s reflection is both nostalgic and instructive, gently challenging contemporary listeners to reflect on how considerate action can quietly but profoundly shape the fabric of society.
Growing up with this mindset means learning to tune out the natural urge to put oneself forward at every opportunity. It’s a gentle discipline, a daily yielding of ego that in practice often translates into small but significant gestures, allowing someone else to speak before you, quietly offering support without expecting accolades, or letting go of typical anxieties about constantly asserting yourself. It does not mean ignoring your own needs entirely, but rather developing a habit of thinking beyond immediate self-interest. Hepburn refers to her upbringing as rooted in this ethic, suggesting it provided her with resilience and clarity.
Embedded in the phrase "don’t fuss, dear; get on with it" is a subtle encouragement not to become mired in self-pity, worry, or dramatization of hardship. There’s a certain stoicism and practicality implied, a belief in action over complaint, and in finding dignity through perseverance. In essence, there is both compassion and strength in this worldview: by putting others before oneself, we build deeper connections, broaden our perspective, and anchor ourselves in a sense of purpose larger than personal gain. Hepburn’s reflection is both nostalgic and instructive, gently challenging contemporary listeners to reflect on how considerate action can quietly but profoundly shape the fabric of society.
Quote Details
| Topic | Humility |
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