Life Quote by Bill Burnett
““These are all gravity problems—meaning they are not real problems. Why? Because in life design, if it’s not actionable, it’s not a problem. Let’s repeat that. If it’s not actionable, it’s not a problem. It’s a situation, a circumstance, a fact of life. It may be a drag (so to speak), but, like gravity, it’s not a problem that can be solved.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans, 2016
Only situations that can be acted upon count as problems; unchangeable facts are not problems.
In simple terms: Actionable issues are real problems.
Key Takeaway
Focus on what you can change.
Themes
design
action
problem solving
mindset
Mood
reflective
pragmatic
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career planning
- personal development
- relationship issues
- health goals
Key Concepts
agency
gravity metaphor
design thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What can you change right now?
- How do you differentiate between a problem and a circumstance?
A Different Perspective
Some problems may feel urgent but remain unsolvable without external change.
