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Some are "industrious," and appear to love labor for its…

“Some are "industrious," and appear to love labor for its own sake, or perhaps because it keeps them out of worse mischief; to suchI have at present nothing to say. Those who would not know what to do with more leisure than they now enjoy, I might advise to work twice as hard as they do,--work till…” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“Some are "industrious," and appear to love labor for its own sake, or perhaps because it keeps them out of worse mischief; to suchI have at present nothing to say. Those who would not know what to do with more leisure than they now enjoy, I might advise to work twice as hard as they do,--work till they pay for themselves, and get their free papers.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Work and Leisure", 1855

Some love labor for its own sake, yet others misuse leisure; hard work may be a remedy for idle minds.

In simple terms: Work can cure idle time.

Key Takeaway

Balance work and leisure wisely.

Themes

labor leisure productivity self‑discipline

Mood

reflective practical

Type

philosophical self‑help

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • time management
  • hobby development
  • education

Key Concepts

philosophy economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How much work is enough?
  • What leisure enriches you?
A Different Perspective

Overwork can cause burnout.

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