Archer Quote by Herodotus
“Bowmen bend their bows when they wish to shoot: unbrace them when the shooting is over. Were they kept always strung they would break and fail the archer in time of need. So it is with men. If they give themselves constantly to serious work, and never indulge awhile in pastime or sport, they lose their senses and become mad.”
About This Quote
Source Historical text: Histories, Book 2, 5th century BC
People who never relax or enjoy leisure become rigid and may lose balance, just as bows left constantly strung break.
In simple terms: Constant work without rest leads to burnout.
Key Takeaway
Balance work with regular rest and recreation.
Themes
balance
rest
mental health
discipline
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
philosophical
wellness
When to use this quote
- daily routines
- exercise breaks
- hobbies
- creative projects
- stressful jobs
Key Concepts
archery metaphor
stress management
well‑being
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you schedule restorative breaks?
- What activities help you reset your mind?
A Different Perspective
May ignore necessity of sustained effort for mastery.
![“They [the Persians] are accustomed to deliberate on matters of the highest moment when warm with wine; but whatever they in this situation may determine is again proposed to them on the morrow, in their cooler moments, by the person in whose house they had before assembled. If at this time also it…” quote by Herodotus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/db3/herodotus-2844_accustomed_they-the-persians-are-accustomed-to-deli_295502.jpg)
