--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: After all, it is hard to master both life…" description: "\"After all, it is hard to master both life and work equally well. So if you are bound to fake one of them, it had better be life.\" — Joseph Brodsky" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cde/joseph-brodsky-1225_better-life_after-all-it-is-hard-to-master-both-life_2024429.png" --- # After all, it is hard to master both life and work equally… ![“After all, it is hard to master both life and work equally well. So if you are bound to fake one of them, it had better be life.” quote by Joseph Brodsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cde/joseph-brodsky-1225_better-life_after-all-it-is-hard-to-master-both-life_2024429.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cde/joseph-brodsky-1225_better-life_after-all-it-is-hard-to-master-both-life_2024429.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/cde/joseph-brodsky-1225_better-life_after-all-it-is-hard-to-master-both-life_2024429.png) > “After all, it is hard to master both life and work equally well. So if you are bound to fake one of them, it had better be life.” [Joseph Brodsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/joseph-brodsky/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Balancing personal fulfillment and professional duties is impossible; if a compromise is needed, prioritize life over work. **In simple terms:** Life should trump work when forced to choose. Key Takeaway Choose life over work when necessary. Themes life work balance priorities Mood reflective thoughtful Type philosophical advice When to use this quote - career decisions - personal health - family time - creative pursuits Key Concepts existentialism humanism time management Questions to Reflect On - What aspects of life would you sacrifice for work? - How can you integrate work meaningfully into life? 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