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Existence Quote by William Hazlitt

“No man would, I think, exchange his existence with any other man, however fortunate. We had as lief not be, as not be ourselves.” quote by William Hazlitt
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“No man would, I think, exchange his existence with any other man, however fortunate. We had as lief not be, as not be ourselves.”

William Hazlitt

About This Quote

Source Essay: "On the Pleasure of the Imagination", 1820

He argues that each person values their own existence uniquely and cannot truly trade lives, even if another seems better.

In simple terms: Life is uniquely valuable.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate your own life.

Themes

identity value contentment

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • relationship choices
  • health crises

Key Concepts

existential choice self‑acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes your life meaningful?
  • How do you compare yourself health?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing others can cause dissatisfaction.

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