Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
Natural impulses need restriction to allow for better growth and structure.
In plain terms
Restraint helps things grow better.
What can you take from it?
Discipline improves natural instincts.

Where it applies

  • learning skills
  • raising children
  • personal development

Putting it to work

  • limit impulses to focus
  • prune bad habits

Questions to consider

  • What instincts should you limit?
  • Is restriction always helpful?

Another view

Too much restraint can stifle natural creativity.

More from Henri Matisse

  1. In modern art, it is undoubtedly to Cezanne that I owe the most.

    Permalink to quote #30
  2. Seek the strongest Color effect possible... the content is of no importance.

    Permalink to quote #32
  3. I don't paint things. I only paint the difference between things.

    Permalink to quote #29

Related quotes

  1. Obeying an inalienable law, things grew, spreading riotous and strange in their instinct for growth.

    Brian AldissBrian Aldiss quote #3
  2. I have taken this step because I want the discipline, the fire and the authority of the Church. I am hopelessly unworthy of it, but I hope to become worthy.

    Edith SitwellEdith Sitwell quote #3
  3. Small habits well pursued betimes May reach the dignity of crimes.

    Hannah MoreHannah More quote #5