"Le temps que vous avez pris plaisir à gaspiller n'était pas du temps perdu."

Isn't it funny how we often stress about our time? We worry about productivity, about making every second count. But let's take a step back and think about something important: if you truly enjoy what you're doing, no matter how frivolous it might seem, that time isn't wasted. It's well-spent.

The core idea here is about valuing enjoyment. Time spent doing something you love—whether it's watching your favorite show, reading a book, or just lounging on the couch—has its own worth. It's fulfilling and rejuvenating. So, if you enjoyed 'wasting' that time, it actually wasn't wasted at all.

This notion was popularized during the early 20th century, often attributed to British philosopher Bertrand Russell. In a world obsessed with efficiency and output, Russell's perspective was a breath of fresh air. He suggested that happiness and personal fulfillment are just as important as societal productivity. It was a call to balance the relentless push for progress with the simple joy of living.

Now, think about a real-life example. Imagine you’re an artist. You spend hours doodling, sketching, and painting. For some, this might look like a waste of time—no deadlines, no projects. But for you, those hours are pure bliss. You're lost in creativity, experimenting with colors and techniques. It’s not about the end product, but the joy you find in the process. That time is yours, and it's invaluable.

So, how can you apply this wisdom to your life? First, give yourself permission to enjoy your time, guilt-free. If you love gardening, dive into it without worrying about what else you could be doing. If video games are your thing, play on. It's about recognizing the value in activities that make you happy. Second, communicate this understanding to those around you. Share with friends and family that your 'wasted' time is your way of recharging and finding joy.

Picture this scenario: Sarah is a busy corporate lawyer. Her life is a whirlwind of meetings, deadlines, and court appearances. But every Sunday, she dedicates two hours to baking. She’s not baking to sell or for any special occasion—she just loves it. The act of measuring ingredients, the smell of something sweet in the oven, the simple pleasure of kneading dough—it’s her escape. Some might think she's wasting valuable time, but for Sarah, those two hours are sacred. They help her reset for the week ahead, bringing her peace and happiness.

In a nutshell, don't be too hard on yourself for enjoying your time. Whether it's a hobby, a leisurely stroll, or just sitting quietly with your thoughts—it’s all worthwhile if it brings you happiness. Embrace those moments of joy, and remember, if you enjoyed it, it was never wasted. So go ahead, revel in your 'wasted' time, and feel good about it.