Attention Quote by Christian D. Larson
““The average person is in the habit of saying, “The older I get;”’ and he thereby calls the attention of his mind to the idea that he is getting older. In brief, he compels his mind to believe that he is getting older and older, and thereby directs the mind to produce more and more age. The true expression in this connection is, “The longer I live.” This expression calls the mind’s attention to the length of life, which will, in turn, tend to increase the power of that process in you that can prolong life. When people reach the age of sixty or seventy, they usually speak of “the rest of my days,” thus implying the idea that there are only a few more days remaining. The mind is thereby directed to finish life in a short period of time, and accordingly, all the forces of the mind will proceed to work for the speedy termination of personal existence. The correct expression is “from now on,” as, that leads thought into the future indefinitely without impressing the mind with any end whatever.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Optimist Creed by Christian D. Larson, 1912
Focusing on aging shortens perceived lifespan, while emphasizing ongoing life extends it and promotes longevity.
In simple terms: Thinking about age limits life; thinking about time extends it.
Shift language to “from now on.”
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal health
- goal setting
- habit formation
- career planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your wording affect your outlook on aging?
- What new habits could reinforce a forward‑looking mindset?
Mind may resist change; habit may revert to old phrasing.