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Better things Quote by Steven Pinker

“At every moment we choose, consciously or unconsciously, between good things now and better things later.” quote by Steven Pinker
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““At every moment we choose, consciously or unconsciously, between good things now and better things later.””

Steven Pinker

About This Quote

Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker, 2011

We constantly make trade‑offs between immediate pleasure and long‑term benefit, often without realizing it.

In simple terms: Choosing now vs. later.

Key Takeaway

Consider long‑term outcomes.

Themes

decision‑making self‑control future orientation

Mood

reflective motivational

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal finance
  • health habits
  • career planning
  • relationship building

Key Concepts

psychology temporal discounting behavioral economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What long‑term goal are you sacrificing today?
  • How can you make future benefits more tangible?
A Different Perspective

Immediate rewards can dominate even when they harm future goals.

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