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Busy Quote by Etienne Bonnot de Condillac

“Game, noun: Any unserious occupation designed for the relaxation of busy people and the distraction of idle ones. It's used to take people to whom we have nothing to say off our hands, and sometimes even ourselves.” quote by Etienne Bonnot de Condillac
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“Game, noun: Any unserious occupation designed for the relaxation of busy people and the distraction of idle ones. It's used to take people to whom we have nothing to say off our hands, and sometimes even ourselves.”

Etienne Bonnot de Condillac

About This Quote

Source Book: Dictionnaire de la langue française, 1760

A game is a light, purposeful activity that provides relief for the busy and distraction for the idle, allowing us to offload unwanted thoughts.

In simple terms: Games give busy people a break and idle people a distraction.

Key Takeaway

Use play to clear mental clutter.

Themes

leisure distraction mental health productivity

Mood

relaxed reflective

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • work breaks
  • waiting rooms
  • social gatherings
  • stress relief

Key Concepts

psychology time management social interaction

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure play remains restorative?
  • When does play become procrastination?
A Different Perspective

Games may become avoidance rather than genuine rest.

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