Well-ordered self-love is right and natural.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote explores the concept of self-love and highlights the importance of a balanced and harmonious relationship with oneself. It suggests that self-love, when cultivated in a healthy and well-ordered manner, is not only morally acceptable but also inherent to human nature. It implies that it is natural and appropriate to care for oneself, prioritize personal well-being, and strive for a positive self-image.
The quote encourages a perspective of self-love that is balanced and aligned with moral principles. It emphasizes the importance of caring for oneself in a way that does not infringe upon the rights or well-being of others. It promotes self-care practices that contribute to personal growth, happiness, and overall well-being while respecting the boundaries and needs of others.
Moreover, the quote challenges the misconception that self-love is inherently selfish or narcissistic. It suggests that a well-ordered sense of self-love actually enables individuals to be more compassionate, empathetic, and generous towards others. When we take care of our own needs and cultivate a positive relationship with ourselves, we are better equipped to show kindness and understanding to those around us.
By recognizing the significance of well-ordered self-love, the quote encourages individuals to prioritize self-care and personal growth. It reminds us that nurturing a healthy relationship with ourselves is not only beneficial for our own well-being but also contributes to our ability to engage meaningfully with others and make positive contributions to the world.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Well-ordered self-love is right and natural." was said by Thomas Aquinas (Bio / Quotes). Thomas Aquinas was a medieval Italian philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work "Summa Theologica.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that illustrates the quote "Well-ordered self-love is right and natural" can be found in the life of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates. Socrates is renowned for his belief in the importance of knowing oneself and maintaining a balanced sense of self-respect and self-care. His philosophy emphasized the value of self-knowledge and self-improvement as fundamental to leading a virtuous life.
Socrates believed that understanding and loving oneself in a measured and rational way was essential for personal development and ethical behavior. This form of self-love, according to Socrates, wasn't about indulging in selfish desires but rather about cultivating one's character and wisdom. His famous statement, "Know thyself," inscribed at the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, reflects this principle. Socrates advocated for individuals to engage in introspection and self-examination as a means to achieve moral clarity and personal growth.
In his dialogues, Socrates often engaged his interlocutors in discussions about the nature of virtue and the self. He believed that a well-ordered self-love, which involves recognizing one's own strengths and limitations while striving for moral excellence, is both natural and necessary. This perspective was evident in his approach to philosophy and his dedication to questioning and refining his own understanding of ethical principles.
Socrates' commitment to well-ordered self-love ultimately led him to prioritize the pursuit of truth and wisdom over material wealth or social status. His life and philosophy exemplify how well-ordered self-love can guide individuals toward a more meaningful and virtuous existence.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Applying the quote "Well-ordered self-love is right and natural" in a real-life scenario involves embracing a balanced approach to self-care and personal development. This principle can be particularly useful in managing personal and professional challenges.
Consider a situation where an individual is facing burnout at work. If this person practices well-ordered self-love, they would recognize the importance of taking care of their own well-being in a balanced way. Instead of ignoring their own needs for the sake of professional demands, they would set healthy boundaries, prioritize self-care, and seek support when necessary. This approach ensures that they maintain their mental and emotional health while still fulfilling their responsibilities effectively.
For instance, imagine someone who is working long hours and neglecting their physical health and relationships. By practicing well-ordered self-love, they would evaluate their work-life balance and make conscious decisions to incorporate regular exercise, quality time with loved ones, and sufficient rest into their routine. This balanced approach not only helps in preventing burnout but also enhances overall productivity and satisfaction.
In another scenario, a student striving for academic excellence might apply well-ordered self-love by setting realistic goals and allowing themselves time for relaxation and hobbies. Instead of overburdening themselves with excessive study hours, they would recognize the value of maintaining a balanced lifestyle that supports both academic success and personal happiness.
In essence, well-ordered self-love involves recognizing and addressing one's own needs and limitations in a rational and thoughtful manner. It means understanding that self-care is not a form of selfishness but a necessary aspect of leading a fulfilling and effective life. By applying this principle, individuals can achieve a harmonious balance between personal well-being and external responsibilities, ultimately leading to greater overall satisfaction and success.
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.
