This quote is centered around the idea that work, no matter how challenging or demanding, provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. When a soldier or laborer complains about the hardness of his job, the suggestion is to have him do nothing. The underlying assumption here is that the absence of work or purpose might be even more challenging and unsatisfying than the hardships of their current roles.

This concept is rooted in the idea that human beings inherently seek purpose and activity. Doing nothing, or idleness, might initially seem like a relief, but it can quickly lead to feelings of emptiness, boredom, or even despair. The hardships associated with work, in this context, can be seen as a necessary trade-off for the fulfillment and purpose that work can bring.

In today’s world, this idea is still very applicable. Many people complain about their jobs, the stress, the workload, the monotony. However, if they were to do nothing, they might find that idleness is even more unbearable. This is not to say that people should settle for unsatisfying jobs or harmful work environments, but rather, it highlights the importance of finding meaningful work and the psychological and emotional challenges associated with idleness.

In terms of personal development, this quote encourages individuals to seek out purposeful activity rather than idleness. It suggests that hardships and challenges are not only inevitable but also necessary for growth and fulfillment. Therefore, instead of shying away from challenges or complaining about hardships, it could be more beneficial to embrace them as part of the journey towards personal growth and fulfillment.