Block Quote by Doris Lessing
“I'm going to make the obvious point that maybe the word neurotic means the condition of being highly conscious and developed. The essence of neurosis is conflict. But the essence of living now, fully, not blocking off to what goes on, is conflict. In fact I've reached the stage where I look at people and say - he or she, they are whole at all because they've chosen to block off at this stage or that. People stay sane by blocking off, by limiting themselves.”
About This Quote
Neurosis arises from internal conflict; living fully requires embracing conflict rather than suppressing it.
In simple terms: Neurosis is conflict; living fully means accepting it.
Key Takeaway
Embrace conflict to live authentically.
Themes
psychology
philosophy
growth
Mood
thoughtful
philosophical
Type
advice
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- mindfulness practice
- creative work
- relationship building
- null
Key Concepts
conflict
consciousness
integration
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you allow conflict to inform your choices?
- What does “blocking off” cost you?
A Different Perspective
Suppressing conflict may protect short‑term stability but limits growth.
