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About this quote

What does it mean?
Life is defined by the state of waiting or indecision before true existence begins.
In plain terms
We spend our time hesitating instead of living.
What can you take from it?
Stop waiting for permission to start living.

Where it applies

  • personal growth
  • decision making
  • existential crisis

Putting it to work

  • start a project
  • make a choice
  • accept uncertainty

Questions to consider

  • What are you waiting for?
  • Is waiting a form of living?

Another view

Some hesitation is necessary for thoughtful action.

More from Franz Kafka

  1. My guiding principle is this: Guilt is never to be doubted.

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  2. My peers, lately, have found companionship through means of intoxication - it makes them sociable. I, however, cannot force myself to use drugs to cheat on my …

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  3. My fear... is my substance, and probably the best part of me.

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