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We think that if we just meditated enough or jogged enough…

“We think that if we just meditated enough or jogged enough or ate perfect food, everything would be perfect. But from the point of view of someone who is awake, that’s death. Seeking security or perfection, rejoicing in feeling confirmed and whole, self contained and comfortable, is some kind of…” quote by Pema Chödrön
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““We think that if we just meditated enough or jogged enough or ate perfect food, everything would be perfect. But from the point of view of someone who is awake, that’s death. Seeking security or perfection, rejoicing in feeling confirmed and whole, self contained and comfortable, is some kind of death. It doesn’t have any fresh air. There’s no room for something to come in and interrupt all that. We are killing the moment by controlling our experience.””

Pema Chödrön

About This Quote

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

Seeking perfection or security creates a stagnant, self‑contained state that blocks new experiences and growth.

In simple terms: Perfectionism kills spontaneity.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty.

Themes

mindfulness imperfection presence

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily meditation
  • creative work
  • risk taking

Key Concepts

spiritual growth psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “the moment” feel like for you?
  • How can you invite novelty without fear?
A Different Perspective

Too much acceptance may lead to complacency.

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