---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Shall we always study to obtain more of…"
description: "\"“Shall we always study to obtain more of these things, and not sometimes to be content with less?”\" — Henry David Thoreau"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/5b2/henry-david-thoreau-20_education_shall-we-always-study-to-obtain-more-of_2045308.jpg"
---

#  Shall we always study to obtain more of these things, and…

![“Shall we always study to obtain more of these things, and not sometimes to be content with less?” quote by Henry David Thoreau](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/5b2/henry-david-thoreau-20_education_shall-we-always-study-to-obtain-more-of_2045308.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/5b2/henry-david-thoreau-20_education_shall-we-always-study-to-obtain-more-of_2045308.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/5b2/henry-david-thoreau-20_education_shall-we-always-study-to-obtain-more-of_2045308.jpg)

> ““Shall we always study to obtain more of these things, and not sometimes to be content with less?””

[Henry David Thoreau](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/henry-david-thoreau/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

One should balance striving for more with appreciating what one already has.

**In simple terms:** Seek growth, but also be content.

Key Takeaway

Practice gratitude alongside ambition.

Themes

contentment ambition balance

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical self‑help

When to use this quote

- career planning
- personal finance
- spiritual practice

Key Concepts

minimalism philosophy of happiness

Questions to Reflect On

- When is it wise to pursue more?
- How does gratitude affect ambition?

A Different Perspective

Too much contentment can hinder progress.

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