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The aim of the laborer should be, not to get his living…

“The aim of the laborer should be, not to get his living, to get "a good job," but to perform well a certain work; and, even in a pecuniary sense, it would be economy for a town to pay its laborers so well that they would not feel that they were working for low ends, as for a livelihood merely, but…” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“The aim of the laborer should be, not to get his living, to get "a good job," but to perform well a certain work; and, even in a pecuniary sense, it would be economy for a town to pay its laborers so well that they would not feel that they were working for low ends, as for a livelihood merely, but for scientific, or even moral ends. Do not hire a man who does your work for money, but him who does it for love of it.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Work should be motivated by passion and purpose, not merely wages; societies benefit when labor is valued for its intrinsic worth.

In simple terms: Work for love, not just money.

Key Takeaway

Seek work that aligns with your values.

Themes

purpose labor economics

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • career choice
  • entrepreneurship
  • public service

Key Concepts

intrinsic motivation social good

Questions to Reflect On

  • What work gives you joy?
  • How can you balance purpose with income?
A Different Perspective

Passion alone may not pay bills.

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