Doing things Quote by Joan Didion
“We were not having any fun, he had recently begun pointing out. I would take exception (didn't we do this, didn't we do that) but I had also known what he meant. He meant doing things not because we were expected to do them or had always done them or should do them but because we wanted to do them. He meant wanting. He meant living.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Slouching Towards Bethlehem, Joan Didion, 1968
Choosing actions for personal desire rather than external expectations leads to authentic living.
In simple terms: Live for what you truly want.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize genuine desire over duty.
Themes
authenticity
desire
living
choice
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- creative projects
- personal relationships
- everyday habits
Key Concepts
existentialism
self-determination
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you do if expectations disappeared?
- How does desire shape your identity?
A Different Perspective
Desire can clash with responsibilities or social norms.
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