German philosopher Quote by Christopher Ryan
““As German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer pointed out, Mensch kann tun was er will; er kann aber nicht wollen was er will. (One can choose what to do, but not what to want.)””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast “The Tim Ferriss Show”, 2020
Human freedom lies in actions, not desires; we can act despite unwanted impulses.
In simple terms: We can act, but not control what we want.
Key Takeaway
Focus on actions, not trying to control desires.
Themes
free will
human nature
psychology
Mood
analytical
motivational
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- habit formation
- goal setting
- addiction recovery
- leadership development
Key Concepts
determinism
agency
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you separate your actions from your cravings?
- What strategies help you act despite unwanted urges?
A Different Perspective
Desires may still drive behavior unconsciously.
![“[Man] has imagined a heaven, and has left entirely out of it the supremest of all his delights, the one ecstasy that stands first and foremost in the heart of every individual of his race…sexual intercourse! It is as if a lost and perishing person in a roasting desert should be told by a rescuer…” quote by Christopher Ryan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/939/christopher-ryan-4309_joy_man-has-imagined-a-heaven-and-has-left-e_187069.jpg)
