Begets Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“Idleness begets ennui, ennui the hypochondriac, and that a diseased body. No laborious person was ever yet hysterical.”
About This Quote
Source Letter to John Adams, 1790
He warns that idleness leads to boredom, which can cause hypochondriac tendencies and illness; hard work prevents hysteria.
In simple terms: Idle leads to boredom and health issues; work prevents madness.
Stay active to avoid mental and physical decline.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily routines
- physical labor
- mental exercises
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance activity and rest?
- What habits keep you mentally healthy?
Overworking can also cause stress.