This quote by Friedrich Nietzsche suggests that animals lack self-awareness and a conscious understanding of the world around them. They exist in the present, reacting instinctively to their environment without the capacity to reflect on their own existence or to contemplate the broader world beyond their immediate surroundings.

This lack of self-awareness, however, doesn’t imply that animals are lesser beings. In fact, Nietzsche might be hinting at a certain purity in animals’ existence. They are unburdened by existential questions and the anxieties that come with self-awareness and knowledge of the world. They live in the moment, fully engaged with their immediate reality.

Applying this idea to today’s world, one could argue that humans are often overwhelmed by their self-awareness and knowledge. The information age has made us more aware of the world than ever before, yet this awareness often leads to feelings of anxiety, confusion, and helplessness. We are constantly bombarded with news about global issues that we can do little about, which can lead to a sense of despair and disillusionment.

In terms of personal development, Nietzsche’s quote could be seen as an encouragement to cultivate a certain level of ‘animalistic’ presence in our lives. This doesn’t mean abandoning self-awareness or knowledge, but rather balancing them with the ability to live in the present and engage fully with our immediate reality. This could involve practices like mindfulness and meditation, which help us to tune out distractions and focus on the here and now.

Moreover, recognizing that we, like animals, are part of the natural world, and not separate from it, can lead to a greater sense of connection and empathy with other living beings. This can foster a more compassionate and sustainable approach to our relationship with the environment.