Staring Quote by Maria Semple
““When your eyes are softly focused on the horizon for sustained periods, your brain releases endorphins. It’s the same as a runner’s high. These days, we all spend our lives staring at screens twelve inches in front of us. It’s a nice change.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2010
Looking at distant horizons triggers endorphins, similar to a runner’s high, offering relief from constant close‑screen focus.
In simple terms: Focusing far away makes you feel good, unlike staring at screens.
Take breaks to look at distant scenes.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- commuting
- office work
- creative brainstorming
- stress relief
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How often do you look far away?
- What environments help you reset?
Screen time can still dominate despite breaks.