Accompany Quote by Duane Elgin
“When a person's primary objective is to maximize material pleasures while minimizing discomforts, then life becomes a constant process of "pushing" (trying to push away from discomforts) and "grabbing" (trying to acquire or hold on to that which gives pleasure). With the loss of inner balance that accompanies a habitual "pushing and grabbing" approach to life, a deeper pain ensues-that of becoming aware of the ultimate unsatisfactoriness of the pleasure-seeking/pain-avoiding process itself.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Healing Power of Water, Duane Elgin, 1992
Life dominated by seeking pleasure and avoiding pain creates endless striving and eventual dissatisfaction, revealing the futility of constant pursuit.
In simple terms: Constant pleasure‑seeking leads to imbalance and deeper pain.
Find balance, not endless pursuit.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily routine
- consumer habits
- stress management
- personal growth
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your pursuit of comfort affect your inner peace?
- What can you let go of to reduce constant striving?
May ignore deeper needs and cause burnout.