A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
You can’t get second things by putting them first. You get second things only by putting first things first.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of prioritizing what truly matters to achieve success in other areas of life.
C. S. Lewis's quote underlines the principle of prioritization. He suggests that in order to obtain secondary goals or benefits in life, one must first focus on primary objectives. The idea is that by establishing a clear order of importance and putting the most crucial tasks or values first, we can effectively reach our desired outcomes. This wisdom serves as a reminder that success is built upon a foundation of proper priorities.
Themes
PrioritiesSuccessFocusGoalsImportance
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational talk about time management, one could use this quote to highlight the necessity of focusing on priorities.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
C. S. LewisRead
I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
C. S. LewisRead
The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
C. S. LewisRead
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