Skip to content

Adopted Quote by Richard Cecil

“An idle man has a constant tendency to torpidity. He has adopted the Indian maxim that it is better to walk than to run, and better to stand than to walk, and better to sit than to stand, and better to lie than to sit. He hugs himself into the notion, that God calls him to be quiet.” quote by Richard Cecil
Download Open image
“An idle man has a constant tendency to torpidity. He has adopted the Indian maxim that it is better to walk than to run, and better to stand than to walk, and better to sit than to stand, and better to lie than to sit. He hugs himself into the notion, that God calls him to be quiet.”

Richard Cecil

About This Quote

Source Book: The Maxims of Life, 1923

A person who avoids activity becomes increasingly lazy, rationalizing inactivity with philosophical excuses.

In simple terms: Idle people become lazier, using excuses to stay still.

Key Takeaway

Combat laziness with purposeful action.

Themes

laziness excuses inertia

Mood

reflective critical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • workplace productivity
  • personal health
  • creative projects
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

philosophy self‑deception motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What activity could you start today?
  • How do your beliefs justify inactivity?
A Different Perspective

Excuses may mask deeper fear of failure or change.

3.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Richard Cecil

Explore all 52 Richard Cecil quotes

More Adopted quotes

Browse all 735 Adopted quotes