Christmas Quote by Benjamin Hoff
““The Christmas presents once opened are Not So Much Fun as they were while we were in the process of examining, lifting, shaking, thinking about, and opening them. Three hundred sixty-five days later, we try again and find that the same thing has happened. Each time the goal is reached, it becomes Not So Much Fun, and we're off to reach the next one, then the next one, then the next. That doesn't mean that the goals we have don't count. They do, mostly because they cause us to go through the process and it's the process that makes us wise, happy, or whatever. If we do things in the wrong sort of way, it makes us miserable, angry, confused, and things like that. The goal has to be right for us, and it has to be beneficial, in order to ensure a beneficial process. But aside from that, it's really the process that's important.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Tao of Pooh, Benjamin Hoff, 1982
Repeatedly achieving goals loses its excitement; the journey itself provides growth and wisdom.
In simple terms: Goals become less fun; the process matters.
Key Takeaway
Focus on meaningful processes, not just outcomes.
Themes
growth
process
goal-setting
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- personal projects
- learning new skills
- habit formation
Key Concepts
mindfulness
intrinsic motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What processes bring you joy?
- How can you align goals with personal values?
A Different Perspective
If goals are misaligned, they cause frustration.
