The quote “There is a fatality about good resolutions – that they are always made too late” by Oscar Wilde speaks to the human tendency to procrastinate or delay making positive changes until it’s too late. Good resolutions, in this context, refer to decisions or commitments to improve oneself or one’s situation. Wilde suggests that there is an inherent “fatality” or doom in such resolutions because they often come after one has already faced the consequences of their previous actions or inaction.
In essence, this quote is a commentary on regret and the human habit of not appreciating what we have or what we need to do until the opportunity has passed. It’s the realization that comes after a failure or a missed chance, prompting us to make resolutions to do better, but often when it’s already too late to change the past.
Applying this to today’s world, Wilde’s quote can be seen in many areas of life such as health, relationships, and career. People often make resolutions to start eating healthy and exercising after they’ve been diagnosed with a health condition. In relationships, individuals may decide to treat their partners better after they’ve already caused harm or even a breakup. In careers, individuals may resolve to work harder or pursue their passion after they’ve already suffered from burnout or job loss.
In terms of personal development, the quote underscores the importance of proactive decision-making and the pursuit of growth. It serves as a reminder not to wait for a crisis or a low point to start making positive changes. Instead of waiting for the wake-up call, it encourages us to constantly evaluate our actions and decisions, identify areas that need improvement, and make the necessary changes before it’s too late.
The wisdom in Wilde’s words lies in the understanding that good resolutions should not be responses to negative events or outcomes, but rather a continuous process of self-improvement and growth. It’s about making the most of our time and opportunities, and not waiting for regret to prompt us into action.
