Quotation Friday: Intensity

Here is one quotation that I am a little wary to share. It is by Bertrand Russell, whom wikipedia describes as a British philosopher, logician, mathematician, historian, and social critic. His views in general differ from mine, but I consider this quote very thought provoking

One of the symptoms of an approaching nervous breakdown is the belief that one’s work is terribly important. Bertrand Russell

I think there are two things we can learn from this. First, is that maybe we should take ourselves a little less seriously and lighten up a bit. This is healthy habit that might prevent us from suffering burnout.

The second thing that we can learn is that what other people are doing can be very important to them as well. When we are too involved with our own work, and projects, we can act dismissively toward others. One tip that I recommend, which does not come easily to me, as a male and as an engineer, is to listen wholeheartedly when others are talking. I do mean in this case to listen with your whole heart. This can be a little startling for the speaker, because it is common that we have full attention being paid to us. It is worth it to make others feel important.

Your thoughts? Please leave a comment.

My Favorite Quotation

I ran across a few of my favorite quotations. This was once kind of a motto for me. I am considering adopting it again. It is by Edwin Markham, also author of The Man with the Hoe, and other poems.

For all your days prepare,

and meet them ever alike.

When you are the anvil bear,

when you are the hammer, strike.

It gives me the strength to either hold up to challenges, or to forcefully push through at opportunities.

I would like to hear some of your motivating quotations!

Regards

Gary Short