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About Quote by Martin Seligman

“I've been bothered about time generally and our tripartite division of time into past, present, and future. I think I know what the past is, and I think I know what future is, but I'm really not comfortable with the notion of present.” quote by Martin Seligman
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“I've been bothered about time generally and our tripartite division of time into past, present, and future. I think I know what the past is, and I think I know what future is, but I'm really not comfortable with the notion of present.”

Martin Seligman

About This Quote

Source Book: Authentic Happiness, Martin Seligman, 2002

He grapples with the elusive nature of the present moment, contrasting it with clearer concepts of past and future.

In simple terms: Present is hard to define compared to past/future.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate awareness of now.

Themes

time consciousness psychology

Mood

thoughtful introspective

Type

philosophical self-help

When to use this quote

  • meditation practice
  • stress management
  • goal setting
  • daily planning

Key Concepts

temporal perception mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What helps you stay present?
  • How does present awareness affect decision making?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on present can be challenging amid distractions.

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