If you keep thinking about what you want to do or what you hope will happen, you don't do it, and it won't happen

If you keep thinking about what you want to do or what you hope will happen, you don't do it, and it won't happen

Desiderius Erasmus, a renowned Dutch philosopher and theologian of the Renaissance period, once said, "If you keep thinking about what you want to do or what you hope will happen, you don't do it, and it won't happen." This quote encapsulates the essence of procrastination and the importance of taking action to achieve one's goals.

Erasmus was a firm believer in the power of action and the detrimental effects of idle thoughts and wishes. He understood that merely thinking about one's desires or aspirations without taking concrete steps towards realizing them would lead to stagnation and unfulfilled dreams. In his view, it is essential to translate thoughts into actions in order to bring about the desired outcomes.

Erasmus's words serve as a reminder to individuals who may find themselves stuck in a cycle of wishful thinking and indecision. It is easy to get caught up in daydreams and fantasies about the future, but without the necessary effort and determination to turn those dreams into reality, they will remain just that – dreams.

In the context of Erasmus's own life and work, this quote takes on added significance. As a prolific writer and thinker, Erasmus understood the importance of taking action to bring about change. His works, such as "The Praise of Folly" and "The Education of a Christian Prince," were not merely products of idle contemplation but were the result of his active engagement with the world around him.

Erasmus's philosophy can be applied to various aspects of life, whether it be personal goals, professional aspirations, or social change. By taking proactive steps towards achieving our desires and goals, we can overcome the inertia of inaction and make meaningful progress towards realizing our dreams.