Skip to content

Importance Quote by Stewart Brand

“The urgent finds you; you have to find the important. Importance is not fast. It is slow. It is not superficial. It is deep. And as a result, it's extremely powerful. When important matters go wrong, they undermine everything. When they go right, they sustain everything.” quote by Stewart Brand
Download Open image
“The urgent finds you; you have to find the important. Importance is not fast. It is slow. It is not superficial. It is deep. And as a result, it's extremely powerful. When important matters go wrong, they undermine everything. When they go right, they sustain everything.”

Stewart Brand

About This Quote

Brand distinguishes urgency from importance, urging deliberate focus on deep, lasting matters rather than fleeting crises, because true impact arises from sustained, thoughtful effort.

In simple terms: Urgency misleads; importance requires slow, deep focus.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize depth over speed for lasting impact.

Themes

productivity focus time management

Mood

motivational thoughtful

Type

motivational practical

When to use this quote

  • project prioritization
  • leadership decision‑making

Key Concepts

deep work strategic planning

Practical Applications

  • schedule regular deep‑work blocks for critical tasks

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can organizations balance urgent demands with long‑term goals?
  • What habits support deep, meaningful work?
2.4 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Stewart Brand

Explore all 59 Stewart Brand quotes

More Importance quotes

Browse all 3,155 Importance quotes