Action Quote by Aristotle
“And this activity alone would seem to be loved for its own sake; for nothing arises from it apart from the contemplating, while from practical activities we gain more or less apart from the action. And happiness is thought to depend on leisure; for we are busy that we may have leisure, and make war that we may live in peace.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Nicomachean Ethics, Book X, 4th century BC
True leisure is an activity done for its own sake, not for external rewards; happiness arises from such pure contemplation, while practical work yields secondary benefits.
In simple terms: Leisure is pure enjoyment of activity itself.
Key Takeaway
Seek activities you love for their own sake.
Themes
leisure
contemplation
happiness
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- philosophy study
- creative hobbies
- mindful walking
- volunteer work
Key Concepts
eudaimonia
intrinsic motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What activities give you joy without external payoff?
- How can you incorporate contemplative moments into a busy life?
A Different Perspective
Pure leisure may be inaccessible for many due to socioeconomic constraints.
![“I think instead [of happiness] we should be working for contentment... an inner sense of fulfillment that's relatively independent of external circumstances.” quote by Andrew Weil](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/158/andrew-weil-3294_circumstances_i-think-instead-of-happiness-we-should-b_1341670.jpg)
