Ask yourself whether you are happy', observed the philosopher John Stuart Mill, 'and you cease to be so.' At best, it would appear, happiness can only be glimpsed out of the corner of an eye, not stared at directly.
Oliver BurkemanRead
True security lies in the unrestrained embrace of insecurity - in the recognition that we never really stand on solid ground, and never can.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Real security comes from accepting uncertainty rather than seeking absolute guarantees.
This quote emphasizes that true security is rooted in the acceptance of life's inherent uncertainties. By recognizing that we cannot always have a stable foundation, we can embrace our vulnerability and navigate life's challenges with resilience and adaptability.
Themes
SecurityInsecurityAcceptanceUncertaintyVulnerability
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about facing challenges and embracing risks.
More from Oliver Burkeman
All quotes βUncertainty is where things happen. It is where the opportunities - for success, for happiness, for really living - are waiting.
Oliver BurkemanRead
Reassurance can actually exacerbate anxiety: when you reassure your friend that the worst-case scenario he fears probably won't occur, you inadvertently reinforce his belief that it would be catastrophic if it did. You are tightening the coil of his anxiety, not loosening it. All to often, the Stoics point out, things will not turn out for the best.
Oliver BurkemanRead
The effort to feel happy is often precisely the thing that makes us miserable. And that it is out constant efforts to eliminate the negative - insecurity, uncertainty, failure, or sadness - that is what causes us to feel so insecure, anxious, uncertain, or unhappy.
Oliver BurkemanRead
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Know your worth! People always act like they're doing more for you than you're doing for them.
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The first beneficiary of compassion is always oneself. When compassion, or warmheartedness, arises in us and our focus shifts away from our own narrow self-interest, it is as if we open an inner door. It reduces fear, boosts confidence and brings us inner strength. By reducing distrust, it opens us to others and brings us a sense of connection to others, and sense of purpose and meaning in life.
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Self pity is easily the most destructive of the non-pharmaceutical narcotics; it is addictive, gives momentary pleasure and separates the victim from reality.
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Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
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If, from time to time, you give up expectation, you will be able to perceive what it is you are getting.
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