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About this quote

What does it mean?
In desolation you can choose unhappiness or happiness; that choice defines your freedom.
In plain terms
Even in loneliness you can decide to be happy.
What can you take from it?
Exercise the freedom to choose your attitude.

Where it applies

  • loneliness
  • career setbacks

Putting it to work

  • reframe perspective
  • practice gratitude

Questions to consider

  • What choices do you have when you feel isolated?
  • How does choosing happiness affect your sense of freedom?

Another view

Choice may be limited by external constraints.

More from Milan Kundera

  1. He felt as if she no longer existed for him, had gone off somewhere, into some other life where, if he should meet her, he would no longer recognize her.

    Permalink to quote #52
  2. Since the insignificance of all things is our lot, we should not bear it as an afflication but learn to enjoy it.

    Permalink to quote #54
  3. Pain doesn't listen to reason, it has it's own reason, which is not reasonable.

    Permalink to quote #51

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