Amusement Quote by Blaise Pascal
“Let a man choose what condition he will, and let him accumulate around him all the goods and gratifications seemingly calculated to make him happy in it; if that man is left at any time without occupation or amusement, and reflects on what he is, the meagre, languid felicity of his present lot will not bear him up. He will turn necessarily to gloomy anticipations of the future; and unless his occupation calls him out of himself, he is inevitably wretched.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Pensées, 1670
Without purposeful activity, a person feels empty and drifts toward despair; occupation gives meaning and happiness.
In simple terms: Work gives purpose; without it, we feel miserable.
Key Takeaway
Seek meaningful work or hobbies.
Themes
existence
purpose
human nature
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career planning
- retirement
- unemployment
Key Concepts
meaningful labor
leisure
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What activities give you purpose?
- How does id shape identity?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the value of rest.
