We do only three things in life: we sit, we stand, we lie horizontal. The rest is just a story.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This contemplative quote challenges us to reflect on the simplicity of human existence and the narratives we construct around our lives.
The quote begins with the assertion that in life, "we do only three things: we sit, we stand, we lie horizontal." These actions represent the basic physical postures that humans engage in daily. It serves as a reminder of the fundamental and universal aspects of our existence.
The key insight in this quote lies in the latter part: "The rest is just a story." This part of the quote suggests that the narratives we create about our lives, the roles we play, our achievements, and our experiences are, in essence, stories that we tell ourselves. These stories often include complex narratives about our identities, ambitions, relationships, and struggles.
In essence, this quote encourages a shift in perspective from the complexity and busyness of life to its essential simplicity. It invites us to consider how much of what we perceive as significant or challenging is, in fact, a product of our own storytelling and interpretation.
Moreover, the quote implies that by recognizing the storytelling nature of our lives, we gain a degree of detachment and perspective. We can begin to question the narratives we have created and explore whether they serve our well-being and authenticity or if they are sources of unnecessary stress and attachment.
Ultimately, "We do only three things in life: we sit, we stand, we lie horizontal. The rest is just a story" encourages us to appreciate the simplicity and impermanence of life while inviting us to explore our narratives with greater awareness. It reminds us that the stories we tell ourselves are not fixed truths but interpretations that can be reshaped and reconsidered to bring greater clarity and contentment to our lives.
Who said the quote?
The quote "We do only three things in life: we sit, we stand, we lie horizontal. The rest is just a story." is often attributed to Byron Katie (Quotes). Byron Katie is an author and speaker whose self-inquiry method known as "The Work" has helped countless individuals find inner peace and overcome personal challenges.
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.
