Eager Quote by Arnold Bennett
““Ardour in well-doing is a misleading and a treacherous thing. It cries out loudly for employment; you can't satisfy it at first; it wants more and more; it is eager to move mountains and divert the course of rivers. It isn't content till it perspires. And then, too often, when it feels the perspiration on its brow, it wearies all of a sudden and dies, without even putting itself to the trouble of saying, "I've had enough of this.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Old Wives' Tale by Arnold Bennett, 1908
Excessive zeal in good work can become self‑defeating, demanding endless effort and burning out before completion.
In simple terms: Too much enthusiasm can cause burnout.
Key Takeaway
Balance effort with rest.
Themes
motivation
burnout
balance
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- project deadlines
- creative pursuits
- volunteer work
- career advancement
Key Concepts
self‑discipline
overcommitment
sustainability
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when effort becomes counterproductive?
- What limits do you set to sustain long‑term work?
A Different Perspective
Unchecked ambition may lead to premature exhaustion.
