Never waste valuable time, or mental peace of mind, on the affairs of others—that is too high a price to pay.’
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote emphasizes the importance of focusing on our own lives instead of getting wrapped up in the lives of others. It's easy to get caught up in gossip or drama, but this quote reminds us that doing so only takes away from our own valuable time and mental energy. We should prioritize our own goals and well-being instead of wasting energy on things outside of our control.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Never waste valuable time, or mental peace of mind, on the affairs of others—that is too high a price to pay." was said in the book The 48 Laws of Power (Summary / Quotes) by Robert Greene. Robert Greene is an author and speaker who is best known for his books on power, strategy, and human nature, including "The 48 Laws of Power" and "Mastery."
What's the quote's message?
The quote is a valuable piece of advice that highlights the importance of prioritizing one's affairs and well-being over getting involved in the problems of others. It reminds us that investing too much time and energy in other people's issues can be a costly endeavor that may even harm us.
The quote suggests that while helping others is a noble and admirable pursuit, it should not come at the expense of our well-being. Often, we find ourselves getting entangled in the affairs of others and neglecting our own needs.
The cost of getting too involved in other people's affairs can be high, not just in terms of mental peace, but also in terms of time. Time is a finite resource, and once spent, it cannot be regained. Therefore, it is important to invest our time wisely. We should learn to say no when necessary (and not feel guilty about it).
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One example is the story of Mahatma Gandhi, who spent his life fighting for India's independence from British rule. Gandhi's approach to activism was rooted in nonviolence and peaceful resistance. However, he also recognized the importance of self-care and taking care of oneself first. Gandhi often took breaks from his activism to meditate, reflect, and take care of his well-being. He once famously said, "I have so much to accomplish today that I must meditate for two hours instead of one."
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Here is one example: In a workplace, it's common for coworkers or colleagues to bring their personal problems to others, which can be a distraction. To apply this quote, you can politely decline to get involved in conversations or discussions that do not directly concern your responsibilities or/and goals. You can also set boundaries by letting others know that while you're happy to help, you have to focus on your own work first.
Are there examples that contradict the message of the quote?
Some situations require us to prioritize the well-being of others over our own. For example, in emergencies, and close relationships.
* Want to explore more inspiring quotes and their meanings? Head over to this quotes page and discover a treasure trove of motivational phrases.
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.
