"To flatter and follow others, without being flattered and followed in turn, is but a state of half enjoyment"

This quote by Jane Austen talks to the importance of reciprocity in relationships. It recommends that when we flatter and follow others, we must anticipate to be flattered and followed in return. Otherwise, we are only experiencing half of the satisfaction that comes from relationships. This quote motivates us to be mindful of the balance of exchange in our relationships. It advises us that we ought to not be too quick to provide without anticipating something in return. We must want to get along with give in order to experience the full enjoyment of relationships. This quote is a pointer that relationships should be mutually helpful which we need to strive for balance in our interactions with others.