"The common idea that success spoils people by making them vain, egotistic and self-complacent is erroneous; on the contrary it makes them, for the most part, humble, tolerant and kind"
- W. Somerset Maugham
About this Quote
This quote by W. Somerset Maugham recommends that success does not necessarily cause negative character traits such as vanity, egotism, and self-complacency. Rather, success typically causes positive character qualities such as humility, tolerance, and kindness. This idea challenges the typical belief that success causes arrogance and selfishness. Maugham recommends that success can actually result in more favorable character qualities, which can be beneficial to both the private and society. This quote motivates us to look beyond the surface area and recognize that success can draw out the very best in people. It also motivates us to pursue success, knowing that it can lead to positive character qualities. Eventually, this quote motivates us to acknowledge the capacity of success and to strive for it, understanding that it can bring out the very best in us.