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.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff, 1982
The excitement of anticipation fades once the goal is achieved, leading to a cycle of seeking new targets for pleasure.
In simple terms: Anticipation is fun, achievement less so.
Key Takeaway
Seek joy in the process, not just outcomes.
Themes
anticipation
goal pursuit
cycle of desire
pleasure
habit formation
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- holiday gifting
- project milestones
- personal goals
- career advancement
- fitness achievements
Key Concepts
psychology
behavioral economics
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you find lasting fulfillment after reaching a goal?
- What new meaning can you create beyond the next target?
A Different Perspective
The quote may overlook intrinsic satisfaction from completing tasks.
![“[T]hese last few days where I've moped around damn near depressed for real, because of people who do not exist. Not really. I can buy them Christmas presents, but there is no way to send them. Sometimes I feel like I should be able to walk into the next room and there they will be, but they won't…” quote by Laurell K. Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c19/laurell-k-hamilton-199_able_t-hese-last-few-days-where-i-ve-moped-ar_73321.jpg)
