Climbs Quote by Robert M. Pirsig
“Mountains should be climbed with as little effort as possible and without desire. The reality of your own nature should determine the speed. If you become restless, speed up. If you become winded, slow down. You climb the mountain in an equilibrium between restlessness and exhaustion. Then, when you're no longer thinking ahead, each footstep isn't just a means to an end but a unique event in itself.To live only for some future goal is shallow. It's the sides of the mountains which sustain life, not the top.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, 1974
Climbing mountains should be effortless and driven by natural rhythm; the journey, not the summit, holds true value, and each step becomes an event when free from future obsession.
In simple terms: Climb with natural rhythm; value the journey, not just the goal.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the present pace and enjoy each step.
Themes
mindfulness
journey
balance
presence
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- hiking
- personal development
- mindful practice
- goal setting
Key Concepts
Zen philosophy
flow state
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you know when to speed up or slow down?
- What does each step teach you?
A Different Perspective
May ignore practical safety concerns.
![“I've often thought about that and the only suitable member to join me on that climb [to Everest] was George Lowe: he was strong, a good man on a mountain, with a great sense of humour, and I liked that. I think George and I could've done that together ... I've probably never told George that.” quote by Edmund Hillary](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/165/edmund-hillary-3760_climbs_i-ve-often-thought-about-that-and-the-on_12447.jpg)
