Action Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
“He decided to give up his large ambition of knowledge and action for any narrow craft or profession, aiming at a much more comprehensive calling, the art of living.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "Self-Reliance", 1841
One should abandon narrow ambitions for a broader, more meaningful life purpose, embracing the art of living fully.
In simple terms: Choose a wide, meaningful life over narrow goals.
Key Takeaway
Seek a comprehensive, purposeful life.
Themes
purpose
self‑actualization
philosophy
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career planning
- personal development
- creative pursuits
- life coaching
Key Concepts
humanism
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “the art of living” mean to you?
- How can you broaden a narrow career focus?
A Different Perspective
Broad goals can be vague and hard to achieve.
![“People today distinguish between knowledge and action and pursue them separately, believing that one must know before he can act... . They say [they will wait] till they truly know before putting their knowledge into practice. Consequently to the end of their lives, they will never act and also…” quote by Wang Yangming](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5b6/wang-yangming-43856_action_people-today-distinguish-between-knowled_3161613.jpg)
