If we are unduly absorbed in improving our lives we may forget altogether to live them.
If we are unduly absorbed in improving our lives we may forget altogether to live them.
What did Alan Watts mean by:

If we are unduly absorbed in improving our lives we may forget altogether to live them.

This quote suggests that in our pursuit of self-improvement and making our lives better, we may often miss out on truly living and experiencing life. It is a reminder to not get overly engrossed in the process of improvement that we forget to enjoy the present moment and the life that we are living right now.

The quote emphasizes the importance of balance between self-improvement and living in the present. It doesn’t suggest that we should stop striving for improvement, but rather that we should also value and enjoy our current life in the process. It’s like being so focused on reaching a destination that we forget to enjoy the journey.

This idea is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced, achievement-oriented world where success is often measured by materialistic achievements or societal standards. In such a world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rat race, constantly striving for more and better, often at the expense of our peace of mind, happiness, and the simple joys of life.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to appreciate and value our present selves while striving to become better. It suggests that personal development should not only be about achieving more or becoming ‘better’, but also about learning to be present, to enjoy life, and to appreciate what we have right now.

So, while it’s important to have goals and strive for improvement, it’s equally important to live in the present, enjoy the journey, and appreciate the life we are living right now. This balance is what can lead to a truly fulfilling life.

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