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Learning Quote by David Foster Wallace

“Learning how to think' really means learning how to exercise some control over how and what you think. It means being conscious and aware enough to choose what you pay attention to and to choose how you construct meaning from experience.” quote by David Foster Wallace
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““Learning how to think' really means learning how to exercise some control over how and what you think. It means being conscious and aware enough to choose what you pay attention to and to choose how you construct meaning from experience.””

David Foster Wallace

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Importance of Thinking”, 2005

Thinking involves conscious control over attention and meaning-making, not passive reception.

In simple terms: Think actively, choose your focus.

Key Takeaway

Practice mindful attention and intentional meaning.

Themes

cognition mindfulness self‑awareness learning

Mood

introspective motivational

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • personal development
  • therapy sessions

Key Concepts

critical thinking metacognition attention control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you decide what to focus on?
  • What habits help you construct meaning?
A Different Perspective

Mindful thinking can be difficult in a distraction‑filled world.

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