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About this quote

What does it mean?
Thinking is fundamentally oriented toward action and practical outcomes rather than abstract contemplation.
In plain terms
We think to guide what we do.
What can you take from it?
Use thought to enable effective action.

Where it applies

  • decision making
  • problem solving
  • daily life

Putting it to work

  • align thoughts with goals
  • focus on outcomes

Questions to consider

  • Does all thinking lead to doing?
  • How do we link thought and action?

Another view

Some thinking is purely reflective without immediate action.

More from William James

  1. The impulse to take life strivingly is indestructible in the race.

    Permalink to quote #31
  2. The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook.

    Permalink to quote #33
  3. Genius, in truth, means little more than the faculty of perceiving in an unhabitual way.

    Permalink to quote #30

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