"自分の仕事に真剣に取り組むが自分自身を真剣に考えない人たち、つまり一生懸命働き一生懸命遊ぶ人たちと一緒にいなさい。"

The essence of the quote is pretty straightforward: you should aim to be around folks who are dedicated and put in the effort when it comes to their jobs but also know how to let loose and enjoy life. It's about finding that sweet spot between being serious about getting things done and not taking yourself too seriously to the point you can't have fun.

Historically, this idea isn’t tied to a specific date or event, but it’s a piece of wisdom passed down through various professional settings and motivational contexts. It’s the kind of advice that might pop up in a commencement speech or in a mentor’s guidance. The importance of this balance has been recognized across different eras and cultures because it speaks to fundamental human qualities—our need for both purpose and joy.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Think about Google. It’s a well-known fact that Google’s work environment is designed to foster both high productivity and creativity. The employees, known as Googlers, are encouraged to innovate and work hard on groundbreaking projects. But at the same time, Google provides spaces for relaxation and play—it’s not unusual to see a volleyball game or people chilling in nap pods. The culture there embodies the idea of working hard but also playing hard. This balance is one reason why Google is consistently ranked as one of the best places to work.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by evaluating your circle of friends or colleagues. Are they people who motivate you to excel in your endeavors, but also know how to have a good time? If not, it might be worth seeking out those who do. You might find these people in clubs, professional groups, or even by attending social events that align with your interests. It’s also about setting an example—showing that you can be serious about your goals and still enjoy the journey.

Imagine you’re working on a big project at your job. The deadline is looming, and the pressure is on. You stay late at the office with your team, brainstorming and refining ideas. But, instead of a tense and stressful atmosphere, there’s laughter, maybe a break for a quick game of ping pong or even a round of silly jokes to lighten the mood. This kind of environment helps keep the stress levels manageable and fosters a sense of camaraderie. You’re all in it together, working hard but also making sure to have fun along the way.

Picture a scenario where you’re part of a startup. You and your co-founders are passionate about your product, and you often pull all-nighters to meet deadlines. But you also make time for team-building activities, like going out for a hike or having a weekly game night. You take your work seriously because you believe in what you’re building, but you don’t let the stress consume you. Instead, you find joy in the small moments and keep the atmosphere light-hearted. This balance keeps everyone motivated and prevents burnout.

In summary, the wisdom of surrounding yourself with people who work hard and play hard is timeless. It’s about finding equilibrium between dedication and enjoyment, seriousness and silliness. By choosing to be with people who embody this balance, and by striving to do so yourself, you create an environment that’s both productive and joyful. It's the best of both worlds, really—getting things done while having a blast.