Happiness Quote by William Shakespeare
““And yet for aught I see, they are as sick that surfeit with too much as they that starve with nothing. It is no mean happiness, therefore, to be seated in the mean. Superfluity comes sooner by white hairs, but competency lives longer.””
About This Quote
Source Play: The Tempest, Act 2, Scene 2
The speaker reflects that both excess and scarcity bring suffering, and that true happiness lies in moderation, though excess may appear earlier, while competence endures.
In simple terms: Both too much and too little cause pain; balance is key.
Seek a balanced, moderate life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- health
- career
- relationships
- financial planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one maintain moderation amid excess?
- What practices foster lasting competence?
Achieving balance is difficult in a world that rewards extremes.