Sir John Lubbock, born on April 30, 1834, in London, England, was a prominent British figure known for his diverse career as a banker, Liberal politician, and scientist. He played a key role in passing the Bank Holidays Act of 1871, granting workers paid time off, and contributed significantly to archaeology and education, serving as president of the British Association for the Advancement of Science. Lubbock authored influential books like “The Pleasures of Life” and “The Use of Life,” which explore themes of happiness, nature, and personal growth. His quotes, drawn from these writings and public speeches, offer timeless insights into life. This article focuses on 15 John Lubbock quotes about life, showcasing his reflective wisdom on living meaningfully. Each quote is sourced from his books or essays, providing context for his enduring legacy.
15 John Lubbock Quotes about Life
1. “What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal.” (Book, “The Use of Life,” 1894)
2. “Life is the art of drawing sufficient conclusions from insufficient premises.” (Book, “The Use of Life,” 1894)
3. “Happiness is no vague dream, but may be the rule if we will.” (Book, “The Pleasures of Life,” 1887)
4. “Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.” (Book, “The Use of Life,” 1894)
5. “A day of worry is more exhausting than a day of work.” (Essay, “On Worry,” 1890)
6. “Your character will be what you yourself choose to make it.” (Book, “The Pleasures of Life,” 1887)
7. “We may sit in our library and yet be in all quarters of the earth.” (Book, “The Pleasures of Life,” 1887)
8. “Life is too short for any man to lose even one hour.” (Book, “The Use of Life,” 1894)
9. “Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters.” (Book, “The Use of Life,” 1894)
10. “Do not commit the error common among the young, of assuming that if you cannot save the whole world, you do nothing.” (Book, “The Use of Life,” 1894)
11. “What we see depends mainly on what we look for.” (Speech, British Association, 1881)
12. “In life, as in chess, forethought wins.” (Essay, “On the Best Means of Encouraging Industrial Education,” 1887)
13. “The whole of life is but a moment of time. It is our duty, therefore, to use it aright.” (Book, “The Use of Life,” 1894)
14. “We should be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” (Book, “The Pleasures of Life,” 1887)
15. “Life without friends is like life on a desert island.” (Book, “The Pleasures of Life,” 1887)
These quotes from John Lubbock reflect his deep understanding of life’s essence, stressing the value of kindness, rest, and purposeful living. They reveal a man who believed in finding joy in simplicity, building character through actions, and appreciating nature’s lessons. Lubbock’s words inspire us to live more intentionally, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from within and through connections with others. What insights do these quotes spark for you? Share your thoughts and favorite lines in the comments below.