Anticipation Quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
![“[When anything happens, we interpret it as good or bad, but...] We do not know what is really good or bad fortune. [Only the future can decide. For example, what appears to be bad today may in fact lead us to a greater good tomorrow and by the very act of thinking and planning in that positive…” quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/483/jean-jacques-rousseau-418_anticipation_when-anything-happens-we-interpret-it-as_1541428.jpg)
“[When anything happens, we interpret it as good or bad, but...] We do not know what is really good or bad fortune. [Only the future can decide. For example, what appears to be bad today may in fact lead us to a greater good tomorrow and by the very act of thinking and planning in that positive way, we can help make that good future come true.]”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Emile, 1762
Our judgments of events as good or bad are limited; only time reveals true value, and positive intent can shape outcomes.
In simple terms: We can’t know if something is truly good or bad until later, and hopeful thinking helps create better futures.
Key Takeaway
Adopt a hopeful mindset and act positively.
Themes
perception
future
optimism
Mood
reflective
hopeful
cautious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- career setbacks
- health diagnoses
- financial losses
- relationship conflicts
Key Concepts
subjectivity
causality
self‑fulfilling prophecy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate genuine optimism from wishful thinking?
- What past “bad” events turned out beneficial?
A Different Perspective
Positive thinking may ignore real risks or lead to denial.
![“[It is hard to know what is good luck and what isn't and therefore whether we should be happy or sad about it. Only time will tell. For example...] The Talmud relates a story about two people who wanted to travel by boat. One broke his foot and was unable to make the trip, while his friend got on…” quote by Zelig Pliskin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/68d/zelig-pliskin-22951_anticipation_it-is-hard-to-know-what-is-good-luck-and_34545.jpg)
![“The only thing is that ordinarily when I do dance with [women] they think I am suddenly going to throw them over a table or twist them all around. All I want to do is one-two, one-two-three - a simple fox trot. But they're shaking with anticipation at the thought that I'm about to whip them around…” quote by Gene Kelly](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/073/gene-kelly-11878_anticipation_the-only-thing-is-that-ordinarily-when-i_44100.jpg)
