This quote implies that one cannot truly understand what needs to be done and how to do it until they have spent a significant amount of time doing nothing. The notion of ‘doing nothing’ here does not necessarily mean being inactive or idle. Instead, it suggests a period of introspection, learning, and growth. It is about taking time to reflect, understand, and learn from one’s experiences, mistakes, and successes.

In the context of personal development, this could mean that one needs to take time to understand themselves, their strengths, weaknesses, and passions before they can truly know what they want to do in life and how to achieve it. It’s about taking a step back, reflecting on one’s experiences, and learning from them. Only then can a person truly understand what they want to do and how to do it.

Applying this idea to today’s fast-paced world, where everyone is always busy and constantly on the move, it emphasizes the importance of slowing down and taking time for introspection and self-reflection. In a society that often values constant activity and productivity, this quote suggests that there is also value in periods of inactivity, as they can provide the space and time needed for deep thought, self-discovery, and personal growth.

In essence, Goethe’s quote suggests that wisdom and understanding come not just from doing, but also from periods of not doing, from reflection and introspection. It encourages us to value these quieter moments of contemplation and to see them not as wasted time, but as crucial periods of growth and learning.