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Every industrious man, in every lawful calling, is a…

“Every industrious man, in every lawful calling, is a useful man. And one principal reason why men are so often useless is that they neglect their own profession or calling, and divide and shift their attention among a multiplicity of objects and pursuits.” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“Every industrious man, in every lawful calling, is a useful man. And one principal reason why men are so often useless is that they neglect their own profession or calling, and divide and shift their attention among a multiplicity of objects and pursuits.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

Being productive in one’s true vocation makes a person valuable; spreading effort across many tasks leads to ineffectiveness.

In simple terms: Focus on your true calling to be useful.

Key Takeaway

Specialize, avoid scattered pursuits.

Themes

productivity focus purpose

Mood

determined reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • skill development
  • entrepreneurship
  • academic study

Key Concepts

vocational identity specialization self‑worth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What core skill are you neglecting?
  • How can you consolidate your efforts?
A Different Perspective

Neglecting core strengths can still cause harm.

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