Skip to content

Work done for the Self gives no bondage. Neither desire…

“Work done for the Self gives no bondage. Neither desire pleasure nor fear pain from work. It is the mind and body that work, not I. Tell yourself this unceasingly and realise it. Try not to know that you work.” quote by Swami Vivekananda
Download Open image
“Work done for the Self gives no bondage. Neither desire pleasure nor fear pain from work. It is the mind and body that work, not I. Tell yourself this unceasingly and realise it. Try not to know that you work.”

Swami Vivekananda

About This Quote

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

True freedom comes from recognizing that actions are performed by the mind‑body, not the ego, eliminating attachment to outcomes.

In simple terms: Work is done by mind‑body, not self.

Key Takeaway

Detach from ego, act without attachment.

Themes

detachment self‑realization mind‑body spirituality

Mood

calm reflective

Type

spiritual philosophical

When to use this quote

  • meditation practice
  • daily work
  • stress management
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

non‑dualism ego‑transcendence karma yoga

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you notice ego‑identification in daily tasks?
  • What practices help sustain non‑attachment?
A Different Perspective

Attachment can still arise unconsciously, requiring ongoing mindfulness.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Swami Vivekananda

Explore all 1,889 Swami Vivekananda quotes

More Body quotes

Browse all 20,814 Body quotes