“On meurt deux fois, je le vois bien :
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Cesser d’aimer & d’être aimable,
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C’est une mort insupportable :
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Cesser de vivre, ce n’est rien.”. Source
The 18th-century philosopher Voltaire penned these words, which translate to a powerful observation. “We die twice, I see it well: To cease to love and be lovable is an unbearable death; To cease to live is nothing.” This sentiment cuts to the core of human experience. It suggests that a life devoid of connection and internal warmth is a fate worse than physical death. In our modern world, obsessed with external validation, this idea is more relevant than ever.
We often mistake the summit—the promotion, the award, the social media fame—for the ultimate prize. However, true fulfillment lies not in the applause we receive at the peak, but in the perspective we gain during the climb. This journey broadens our understanding, deepens our empathy, and ultimately defines a life well-lived. It is the internal landscape, not the public pedestal, that offers the most breathtaking view.
The Siren’s Call of Applause
Humans are social creatures. We naturally seek approval from our peers. This desire for validation drives much of our ambition. We chase likes, promotions, and titles because they offer tangible proof of our worth in the eyes of others. Consequently, this external feedback loop can become a powerful, and sometimes deceptive, motivator. It feels good to be recognized for our hard work and accomplishments.
However, the satisfaction from public acclaim is often fleeting. Psychologists refer to this as the hedonic treadmill. We achieve a goal, feel a momentary rush of happiness, and then quickly adapt to this new level of success. Soon, we are looking for the next achievement to replicate that feeling. This cycle can leave us feeling perpetually unsatisfied, always climbing toward a horizon that keeps moving away. The applause fades, the trophies gather dust, and we are left asking, “What’s next?”
. The Psychology of Achievement and Intrinsic Motivation
The True Reward: A Widened Perspective
In contrast to the temporary high of public praise, the perspective gained from overcoming challenges offers a lasting reward. The true prize is not reaching the summit itself but absorbing the lessons of the journey. Every setback, every struggle, and every moment of perseverance carves new pathways in our understanding of the world and our place within it. This expanded worldview is a form of wealth that no one can take away. The Psychology of Personal Growth and Self-Actualization
This broadened perspective fosters critical qualities like empathy and wisdom. When we navigate complex problems, we develop a deeper appreciation for the struggles of others. Furthermore, we learn to see situations from multiple angles, moving beyond black-and-white thinking. This internal growth provides a stable foundation for happiness, one that does not depend on the ever-changing opinions of others. It is the quiet confidence that comes from knowing you can handle what life throws your way. Self-Determination Theory and the Facilitation of Intrinsic Motivation, Social Development, and Well-Being
Cultivating an Internal Compass
Shifting your focus from external acclaim to internal growth is an active practice. It requires conscious effort to build a strong internal compass. You can start by celebrating the process rather than just the outcome. Acknowledge the effort, learning, and resilience it took to complete a project, regardless of the public reaction. Additionally, engaging in activities that broaden your horizons—like reading widely, traveling, or having conversations with people from different backgrounds—can accelerate this shift.
Experts believe that focusing on intrinsic goals, such as personal growth, community connection, and skill development, leads to greater life satisfaction. By prioritizing what truly enriches your inner life, you build a resilient sense of self-worth that praise cannot inflate and criticism cannot diminish. Source
Redefining Your Personal Summit
Ultimately, this journey is about redefining what success means to you. Public acclaim is not inherently negative; it can be a wonderful affirmation of your efforts. The danger lies in making it the sole measure of your value. Instead, consider measuring success by different metrics: How much have you learned? How have your relationships deepened? Are you more compassionate today than you were yesterday?
When people reflect on what makes a life fulfilling, external achievements rarely top the list. Strong relationships, a sense of purpose, and personal growth consistently rank higher. This suggests our intuitive understanding of a good life is already aligned with an internal focus. The challenge is to live by that understanding daily.
. The Science of Well-Being – Yale University
Voltaire’s words remind us that a life rich with love, connection, and self-awareness is the true masterpiece. To lose that is the “unbearable death.” In comparison, the rise and fall of public opinion is merely background noise. Therefore, let your ambition guide you up the mountain, but do not forget to pause, breathe, and admire the ever-expanding view. That perspective is the real summit.