The condition of all who are preoccupied is wretched, but…
“The condition of all who are preoccupied is wretched, but most wretched is the condition of those who labor at preoccupations that are not even their own, who regulate their sleep by that of another, their walk by the pace of another, who are under orders in case of the freest things in the world-loving and hating. If these wish to know how short their life is, let them reflect how small a part of it is their own.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People suffer when they labor for others' concerns, losing personal agency and time.
In simple terms: Working for others' goals steals personal time and freedom.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize your own purpose over imposed duties.
Themes
self‑determination
labor
personal agency
time
philosophy
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- career choices
- volunteer work
- family obligations
- personal projects
Key Concepts
Stoicism
autonomy
existential meaning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance personal goals with helping others?
- What boundaries protect your autonomy?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest may conflict with communal responsibilities.