As for the future, your task is not to foresee it, but to enable it.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The essence of this quote encapsulates a profound perspective on our role in shaping the trajectory of the future. It conveys the idea that rather than attempting to predict or forecast what lies ahead with certainty, our primary responsibility is to actively participate in creating conditions that facilitate a desirable future outcome.
The phrase "As for the future" suggests a recognition of the uncertainty inherent in what is yet to come. It acknowledges that despite our best efforts to anticipate and plan for what may transpire, the future remains inherently unpredictable. This realization prompts a shift in focus away from attempting to predict every detail of what lies ahead and towards a more constructive approach.
"Your task is not to foresee it" highlights the notion that our purpose is not solely to predict the future, but rather to engage with it in a meaningful and purposeful manner. It encourages us to resist the temptation to fixate on attempting to unravel the mysteries of what tomorrow may bring and instead directs our attention towards taking action in the present moment.
"But to enable it" emphasizes the proactive role we play in influencing the course of events yet to unfold. Rather than being passive observers of our fate, we are called upon to be active agents of change. This involves creating the conditions, making the choices, and undertaking the actions necessary to steer the future in a direction that aligns with our aspirations and values.
In essence, this quote serves as a reminder of our agency and responsibility in shaping the world around us. It encourages us to focus our energies not on futile attempts to predict every twist and turn of the future, but rather on taking decisive action to create a future that reflects our vision of a better world. It speaks to the power of human agency and the importance of seizing the opportunities that lie before us to make a positive impact on the course of history.
Who said the quote?
The quote "As for the future, your task is not to foresee it, but to enable it." is often attributed to Antoine de Saint-Exupery (Bio / Quotes). Antoine de Saint-Exupery was a French writer and pioneering aviator, best known for his novella "The Little Prince".
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.