Art Quote by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
““These examples suggest what one needs to learn to control attention. In principle any skill or discipline one can master on one’s own will serve: meditation and prayer if one is so inclined; exercise, aerobics, martial arts for those who prefer concentrating on physical skills. Any specialization or expertise that one finds enjoyable and where one can improve one’s knowledge over time. The important thing, however, is the attitude toward these disciplines. If one prays in order to be holy, or exercises to develop strong pectoral muscles, or learns to be knowledgeable, then a great deal of the benefit is lost. The important thing is to enjoy the activity for its own sake, and to know that what matters is not the result, but the control one is acquiring over one’s attention.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Flow, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, 1990
Enjoying an activity for its own sake, not for external results, builds true mastery of attention.
In simple terms: Enjoy the process, not just outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Focus on intrinsic motivation.
Themes
attention
intrinsic motivation
mastery
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
self‑help
When to use this quote
- learning a new language
- exercise
- meditation
Key Concepts
flow
mindfulness
skill development
Questions to Reflect On
- What activities do you love for their own sake?
- How can you shift from result‑oriented to process‑oriented?
A Different Perspective
Focusing solely on outcomes can diminish enjoyment.
