"
title="
Eleanor Roosevelt
We often judge our days by what happened. But another way to judge them is by what we talked about.Today’s quote of the day, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people,” is widely attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, former First Lady of the United States and one of the most influential public figures of her time. She was known for speaking with clarity, standing up for human rights, and pushing people to think beyond the obvious.This quote has stayed popular because it is simple, slightly sharp, and easy to apply. It makes you pause and ask a basic question: what do my conversations usually revolve around?
Quote of the day by Eleanor Roosevelt
“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”
Meaning of the quote
Roosevelt is dividing conversation into three levels.The highest level is ideas. That includes values, plans, solutions, books, learning, and big questions. Conversations about ideas stretch the mind. They help you see possibilities. They often lead to growth.The middle level is events. That includes news, office updates, what happened today, and the latest developments. This is not “bad.” It is practical and necessary. But if it is all you talk about, life can start feeling repetitive. You stay in reaction mode.The lowest level, according to the quote, is people. That does not mean you should never talk about people you care about. It is more about the habit of discussing people in a way that is judgmental, petty, or focused on their personal lives. That kind of talk rarely improves anyone’s life. It usually spreads negativity and wastes energy.The quote is also a reminder: you can choose the level. You can shift the conversation by asking a better question.
Why this quote matters today
Today, gossip travels faster than ideas. Social media rewards drama. Group chats often revolve around who said what, who did what, and who is doing better or worse. Over time, that kind of focus can make you anxious, cynical, and distracted.Roosevelt’s quote pushes you toward a cleaner mental diet. More ideas. More learning. More constructive discussions. Less judgement.It is not about sounding “smart.” It is about using your time and attention in a way that builds you, instead of draining you.
How to apply it in daily life
- When a conversation turns into gossip, shift it gently to solutions or lessons
- Ask, “What can we learn from this?” instead of “Did you hear about them?”
- Follow people who share ideas, not just outrage
- Spend time with friends who talk about goals and growth
- Read or listen to something thoughtful so you always have an idea to share
- Protect your peace. Not every opinion about a person deserves your attention
Other famous quotes by Eleanor Roosevelt
- “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
- “Do one thing every day that scares you.”
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
- “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”
