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About this quote

What does it mean?
Living only for oneself limits a person's existence; engaging with others enriches life.
In plain terms
Isolating yourself limits your life experience.
What can you take from it?
Connect with others to live fully.

Where it applies

  • loneliness
  • social engagement
  • selfishness

Putting it to work

  • build relationships
  • help others
  • join communities

Questions to consider

  • How much do you live for others?
  • Does connection make life better?

Another view

Solitude can also be valuable for introspection and rest.

More from Michel de Montaigne

  1. When I am attacked by gloomy thoughts, nothing helps me so much as running to my books. They quickly absorb me and banish the clouds from my mind.

    Permalink to quote #141
  2. We only labor to stuff the memory, and leave the conscience and the understanding unfurnished and void.

    Permalink to quote #140
  3. Wonder is the foundation of all philosophy, research is the means of all learning, and ignorance is the end.

    Permalink to quote #144

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