Behinds Quote by George Bernard Shaw
“Life at its noblest leaves mere happiness far behind; and indeed cannot endure it. Happiness is not the object of life: life has no object: it is an end in itself; and courage consists in the readiness to sacrifice happiness for an intenser quality of life.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Man and Superman, 1903
True fulfillment comes from sacrificing fleeting happiness for deeper purpose and courage, seeing life as an end in itself.
In simple terms: Purpose outweighs happiness.
Seek deeper purpose over fleeting joy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career choices
- personal development
- artistic pursuits
- relationships
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What are you willing to sacrifice for meaning?
- How do you balance joy and purpose?
Prioritizing purpose may cause neglect of personal well‑being.