You know the old adage: Plant an expectation, reap a disappointment.
Elizabeth GilbertRead
You know, even I have had work or ideas come through me from a source that I honestly cannot identify. And what is that thing? And how are we to relate to it in a way that will not make us lose our minds, but, in fact, might actually keep us sane?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the enigmatic nature of inspiration and creativity.
In this quote, Elizabeth Gilbert explores the concept of inspiration as a mysterious force that can influence our work and ideas in ways that are hard to explain. She questions how we can engage with this creative source without becoming overwhelmed by it, suggesting that a mindful relationship to our inspirations can lead to mental clarity and sanity.
Themes
InspirationCreativityMental ClarityIdeasWork
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about embracing creative processes and overcoming self-doubt.
More from Elizabeth Gilbert
All quotes →Do not apologize for crying. Without this emotion, we are only robots.
Elizabeth GilbertRead
I had always been taught that the pursuit of happiness was my natural (even national) birthright. It is the emotional trademark of my culture to seek happiness. Not just any kind of happiness, either, but profound happiness, even soaring happiness. And what could possibly bring a person more soaring happiness than romantic love.
Elizabeth GilbertRead
When I tried this morning, after an hour or so of unhappy thinking, to dip back into my meditation, I took a new idea with me: compassion. I asked my heart if it could please infuse my soul with a more generous perspective on my mind's workings. Instead of thinking that I was a failure, could I perhaps accept that I am only a human being--and a normal one, at that?
Elizabeth GilbertRead
And when you sense a faint potentiality for happiness after such dark times you must grab onto the ankles of that happiness and not let go until it drags you face-first out of the dirt - this is not selfishness, but obligation. You were given life; it is your duty to find something beautiful within life no matter how slight.
Elizabeth GilbertRead
But never again use another person's body or emotions as a scratching post for your own unfulfilling yearnings.
Elizabeth GilbertRead
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Creativity is a natural extension of our enthusiasm.
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