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.
C. S. LewisRead
Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
C. S. LewisRead
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
Similar quotes
You are not a helpless victim of your own thoughts, but rather a master of your own mind.
Louise HayRead
Memory, when duly impregnated with ascertained facts, is sometimes surprisingly fertile.
George EliotRead
Simple, genuine goodness is the best capital to found the business of this life upon. It lasts when fame and money fail, and is the only riches we can take out of this world with us.
Louisa May AlcottRead
Don't argue for other people's weaknesses. Don't argue for your own. When you make a mistake, admit it, correct it, and learn from it / immediately.
Stephen CoveyRead
Thought is a key to all treasures; the miser's gains are ours without his cares. Thus I have soared above this world, where my enjoyment have been intellectual joys.
Honore De BalzacRead
What you are as a person is far more important than what you are as a basketball player.
John WoodenRead