Today's quote comes from Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919), who served as the 26th President of the United States. Not only was he an accomplished politician, but also a staunch conservationist, historian, and author. Most people may know that it was this venerable Rough Rider who uttered the famous line, "Speak softly and carry a big stick." Here's a quote that's not as well known but, in my view, equally resonant:
"Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore Roosevelt
The exuberant Roosevelt not only published three books in his lifetime, but was an avid reader of history, poetry, and other subjects about which he was passionate.
As I've noted in prior posts, I myself am passionate about writing and reading, just as Roosevelt was. When I sit down and put words down on paper, the hours just fly by. I feel completely in my element. I know that writing is my calling, and there's just nothing in this world -- other than reading or learning, perhaps -- that I'd rather do for work or leisure.
To his point, when you're doing "work worth doing," it doesn't feel much like work at all. Although I put a lot of work into this blog, as well as my other writing projects, I have so much fun doing it that it feels more like a hobby.
To you, worthwhile work may include doing things around the house, tending to your garden, freelance projects, and so on.
That's the beauty of life -- we all have the opportunity to explore our passions and immerse ourselves in them. If you feel like you haven't quite found it yet, don't fret. There are plenty of books out there that can help point you in the right direction.
I wouldn't want anyone to go through life feeling like they missed out on the chance to cultivate their passions. Life is too short! We should all live for today and waste no time working toward our goals, whether they involve writing books, starting a business, or traveling at least once to every continent.
Do you agree with Teddy? How important is following your passions to you?
"Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore Roosevelt
The exuberant Roosevelt not only published three books in his lifetime, but was an avid reader of history, poetry, and other subjects about which he was passionate.
As I've noted in prior posts, I myself am passionate about writing and reading, just as Roosevelt was. When I sit down and put words down on paper, the hours just fly by. I feel completely in my element. I know that writing is my calling, and there's just nothing in this world -- other than reading or learning, perhaps -- that I'd rather do for work or leisure.
To his point, when you're doing "work worth doing," it doesn't feel much like work at all. Although I put a lot of work into this blog, as well as my other writing projects, I have so much fun doing it that it feels more like a hobby.
To you, worthwhile work may include doing things around the house, tending to your garden, freelance projects, and so on.
That's the beauty of life -- we all have the opportunity to explore our passions and immerse ourselves in them. If you feel like you haven't quite found it yet, don't fret. There are plenty of books out there that can help point you in the right direction.
I wouldn't want anyone to go through life feeling like they missed out on the chance to cultivate their passions. Life is too short! We should all live for today and waste no time working toward our goals, whether they involve writing books, starting a business, or traveling at least once to every continent.
Do you agree with Teddy? How important is following your passions to you?
Comments