Future self Quote by Rick Hanson
““It's a general moral principle that the more power you have over someone, the greater your duty to use that power benevolently. Well, who is the one person in the world you have the greatest power over? It's your future self. You hold that life in your hands, and what it will be depends on how you care for it.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Hardwiring Happiness, Rick Hanson, 2013
Having power over others creates a moral duty to act kindly; the greatest power we hold is over our future selves, shaping our lives through care.
In simple terms: Power over others demands kindness; we control our future self.
Key Takeaway
Treat your future self with compassion.
Themes
responsibility
self‑care
future
ethics
Mood
reflective
motivational
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- health habits
- financial planning
- relationship building
Key Concepts
moral duty
personal agency
long‑term planning
Questions to Reflect On
- How will you care for your future self today?
- What habits can you change now for long‑term benefit?
A Different Perspective
Future self‑control is limited by present habits and external constraints.
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