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Afternoon Quote by Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

“I always tried to live up to Leo Szilard's commandment, "don't lie if you don't have to." I had to. I filled up pages with words and plans I knew I would not follow. When I go home from my laboratory in the late afternoon, I often do not know what I am going to do the next day. I expect to think…” quote by Albert Szent-Gyorgyi
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“I always tried to live up to Leo Szilard's commandment, "don't lie if you don't have to." I had to. I filled up pages with words and plans I knew I would not follow. When I go home from my laboratory in the late afternoon, I often do not know what I am going to do the next day. I expect to think that up during the night. How could I tell them what I would do a year hence?”

Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

About This Quote

Source Memoir: Reflections of a Scientist, 1970

The author admits to failing to follow his own plans, highlighting the difficulty of aligning intentions with actions.

In simple terms: Plans often remain unfulfilled.

Key Takeaway

Bridge the gap between intention and execution.

Themes

science ethics personal development

Mood

introspective honest

Type

personal motivational

When to use this quote

  • research planning
  • daily routines
  • long‑term projects

Key Concepts

self‑discipline goal setting

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can one ensure follow‑through?
  • What systems help track commitments?
A Different Perspective

Self‑deception can mask true progress.

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