Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is the noble art of leaving things undone. The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of non-essentials.

Meaning

The essence of this quote lies in its reflection on wisdom. It points to the idea that reflection reveals deeper truths and invites us to consider how we think before acting.

Theme

Quotes about wisdom hold lasting relevance. They are shared widely because people seek clarity and insight, reinforcing that every moment can teach something.

About the Author

Many popular reflections are credited to Lin Yutang, including this one. Their words often comment on themes like wisdom.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
reflection reveals deeper truths.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about wisdom, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we think before acting.