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Acceptance Quote by David Allen

“It is a tricky business to know when you should set goals and objectives in order to achieve a focus, and when you would be better off dealing with the acceptance and management of your current reality so you can later step into new directions and responsibilities with greater stability and…” quote by David Allen
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“It is a tricky business to know when you should set goals and objectives in order to achieve a focus, and when you would be better off dealing with the acceptance and management of your current reality so you can later step into new directions and responsibilities with greater stability and clarity. Only you will know the answer to that, and only in the moment.”

David Allen

About This Quote

Source Book: Getting Things Done by David Allen, 2001

The author advises discerning when to set goals versus when to accept current reality, emphasizing present‑moment awareness for future direction.

In simple terms: Know when to plan and when to accept now.

Key Takeaway

Adapt goals to present reality.

Themes

goal setting acceptance mindfulness

Mood

thoughtful pragmatic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business strategy
  • personal development
  • coaching

Key Concepts

strategic planning situational awareness adaptability

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it better to pause?
  • How does acceptance enable new goals?
A Different Perspective

Over‑planning can cause paralysis.

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