Human beings are works in progress that mistakenly think they’re finished.
Harvard psychologist Dr. Daniel Gilbert
Om forfatteren
Daniel Todd Gilbert is an American social psychologist and writer. He has won numerous awards for his teaching and research and has written a bestselling book, Stumbling on Happiness, which has been translated into more than 30 languages. Gilbert has also written essays for various newspapers and magazines, hosted a nonfiction television series on PBS, and given three popular TED talks.
The meaning behind the quote
The quote highlights the paradoxical nature of human development. It suggests that individuals often believe they have reached a state of completion when, in reality, they are constantly evolving and growing. This perspective encourages introspection and a recognition of the importance of ongoing self-improvement.
In a world where people are often encouraged to strive for perfection and achievement, this quote reminds us that true fulfillment and happiness cannot be found in a state of stagnation or complacency. Instead, it encourages individuals to embrace the ongoing nature of their personal growth and seek out new experiences and challenges that can help them continue to develop and learn.
Recognizing the fallacy of believing that one has reached a final stage of growth encourages people to remain open to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. It also underscores the importance of self-awareness and the need to regularly reassess one’s beliefs and values in order to ensure that they align with one’s true aspirations.