Wastepaper Basket Quote by Samuel Butler
““Every one should keep a mental wastepaper basket and the older he grows the more things he will consign to it - torn up to irrecoverable tatters.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Living, 1865
One should discard outdated thoughts as they age, keeping a mental trash bin for useless ideas.
In simple terms: Discard old ideas as you age.
Key Takeaway
Regularly clear mental clutter.
Themes
growth
memory
self‑improvement
Mood
thoughtful
pragmatic
Type
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- decision making
- learning
- creative work
Key Concepts
cognitive psychology
philosophy
habits
Questions to Reflect On
- What mental clutter do you keep?
- How often do you review your thoughts?
A Different Perspective
Some discarded ideas may still hold value.
