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"Estamos más cerca de las personas cuando les prometemos algo que nunca se puede cumplir."

Alain de Botton
Alain de Botton Author, Philosopher
Translations
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Quote meaning
Promises are a powerful thing. When you promise someone something, you’re giving them a piece of hope—a glimpse into an ideal future. The core of this quote is about the emotional bond created when we make grand promises, even if they might be unrealistic or impractical. It’s not about the promise itself, but the connection forged in that moment of shared belief and expectation.

Historically, this idea has roots in various contexts, from political campaigns to personal relationships. Think about politicians promising utopia during elections. People rally behind these leaders because they share a vision, even if deep down, everyone knows such perfection is unattainable. The promise itself isn't the point; it’s the hope and unity it generates among supporters.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture a startup company. The founder passionately promises their team that they'll revolutionize the industry, disrupt the market, and make everyone wealthy beyond their wildest dreams. The employees buy into this vision, working tirelessly, fueled by the excitement of the promise. Now, the startup may or may not succeed in such grand terms, but the dedication and unity among the team are undeniable. They're closest during this shared journey towards a sparkling, albeit uncertain, future.

So, how can you apply this idea in your life? It's not about making empty promises—but about inspiring hope and fostering genuine connections. When you’re trying to motivate your team or support a friend, sometimes offering a vision of what could be is incredibly powerful. Be mindful, though. While a promise can inspire, don't overuse it or make promises you know are impossible. It’s a delicate balance between fostering hope and maintaining credibility.

Here’s a relatable scenario: Imagine you and your best friend are dreaming about a future adventure. You promise that one day, you’ll both quit your jobs, travel the world, and live the dream. You might never actually leave your jobs and become globetrotters, but in that moment, you’re both closest. You’re united by the shared dream and the exciting possibility of adventure.

This bond—formed by shared visions and promises—is a testament to our innate desire for connection and shared experiences. It’s like when you're kids and you promise your friend you’ll build the coolest treehouse ever. The treehouse may never get built, but the hours spent planning and dreaming cement your friendship.

In the end, it’s the hope and the shared belief that matter. Whether it’s a massive dream, like changing the world, or a small one, like going on an epic road trip, the promise creates a connection. So, when you want to motivate or connect deeply with someone, don’t be afraid to dream big together. Just remember to keep it genuine and balanced, and you’ll build relationships that are strong and inspiring.

Think about it the next time you’re trying to inspire your team, comfort a friend, or even motivate yourself. Sometimes, the biggest promises create the strongest bonds, even if the destination remains just out of reach.
Related tags
Commitment Deception Disappointment Expectations Human nature Promises Psychology Realism Relationships Trust
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