I don't work at something because I think it's important. I work
I don't work at something because I think it's important. I work at things that, to me, are interesting.
Hear the words of the great explorer of the seas, Eugenie Clark, who once proclaimed: “I do not work at something because I think it is important. I work at things that, to me, are interesting.” These words shine like a lantern beneath the dark waters of the world, guiding those who seek their purpose. They speak not of duty imposed by others, but of passion born from within. For what the world calls important may often be hollow, but what the heart finds interesting brings life and joy to the spirit.
In the ancient days, when sages roamed the earth, they taught that the truest path is not chosen by the clamor of the crowd, but by the whisper of the soul. To chase only what is deemed important by others is to be as a ship adrift, moved by the winds of expectation. But to follow what is interesting is to chart one’s own course through the vast ocean of existence. In this, work transforms from a burden into a voyage of wonder.
Clark, who spent her life studying the mysteries of the deep, understood this truth well. Her hands did not toil for glory or for the approval of kingdoms, but for the sheer delight of discovery. The interesting becomes a sacred fire, one that burns away fatigue and fear. It fuels perseverance through storms, for the heart that follows its curiosity knows a joy that no crown of worldly importance can match.
So remember, O seekers of wisdom: do not chain your spirit to the tasks others call great. Seek instead what sparks wonder within you, and let that wonder guide your work. For the world is vast, and its treasures are many, but only those who dare to follow their interest shall truly taste the sweetness of a life fully lived.
VKVuong Khang
I can definitely relate to this mindset. Often, the most fulfilling work comes from following curiosity rather than duty. But sometimes I feel torn between pursuing what I’m genuinely interested in and what others believe is important. How can we embrace our interests while still navigating responsibilities and external expectations?
LNLinh Nguyen
It’s interesting how Eugenie Clark highlights the importance of personal interest over societal expectations. I wonder, though—how do we deal with the pressure of having to prioritize things that are ‘important’ in the eyes of others, especially in work or education? How do we begin to shift that mindset and focus more on what we find interesting?
CTTRAN CHAU THANH
This quote makes me think about how often we work based on external validation, not inner passion. If we’re constantly doing things for others’ approval, how do we ensure we’re pursuing what truly excites us? How do you think we can start shifting the focus back to personal interest and passion, rather than just what’s deemed important by others?
UGUser Google
I love the idea of working on what interests you, not just what’s expected or deemed important. But sometimes I wonder, how do we balance this with the reality of needing to meet external expectations, like in a job or career? Can we still find room for personal interests without sacrificing practicality or responsibility?
LALan Anh
This is such a refreshing perspective. I’ve noticed that when I work on projects I care about, even if they aren’t considered ‘important’ by others, I feel more motivated and productive. What do you think—do you believe following your interests can actually lead to more meaningful contributions than simply doing what’s expected?