"Nous renonçons aux plaisirs que nous pourrions avoir pour mériter des plaisirs auxquels nous ne pouvons pas renoncer"

The idea here is that sometimes we give up immediate, easy pleasures because we're aiming for something greater that we can't live without. Think about it this way: you skip eating that delicious piece of chocolate cake today because you’re striving for better health in the long run, which is something you prize more deeply.

Historically or personally, this concept pops up everywhere, from ancient philosophy to modern goal-setting. Aristotle, for instance, talked about living a virtuous life and how sometimes that meant sacrificing short-term joys for long-term fulfillment. On a personal level, you might have heard your grandparents talk about saving money for a rainy day instead of spending it all at once. This mindset has been around forever because it's so tied to how we think about success and happiness.

Imagine a young professional who just landed their dream job but has to work long hours, often staying late at the office while their friends are out having fun. They pass on immediate joys like spontaneous hangouts and weekend getaways. But why? Because they're investing in their career. They know that mastering their craft and establishing their reputation will lead to a fulfilling career they can't imagine giving up. The payoff—both in terms of personal satisfaction and professional accolades—is worth it.

So, how do you apply this wisdom? Start by identifying what you truly value long-term. Maybe it’s a stable financial future, a healthy lifestyle, or becoming an expert in your field. Once you’ve got that clear, it becomes easier to let go of those tempting but fleeting pleasures. It’s about seeing the bigger picture. Next time you’re faced with a choice between instant gratification and a step toward your larger goal, remind yourself what’s at stake. Picture the ultimate reward. If you want to save for a house, maybe skip that trendy new gadget. Want to run a marathon? Pass on the late-night Netflix binges for an early morning jog.

Let’s bring this idea to life with a relatable story. Picture Sarah, an aspiring writer. She loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book or binge-watching her favorite shows. But she also dreams of publishing her own novel. So, she sets a goal: write for at least an hour every day. At first, it’s tough. Her friends invite her out, and there’s always something great on TV. But she sticks to her guns. Months pass, and she’s got a solid first draft. It’s not just about the book; it’s about proving to herself that she can commit to her passion. That sense of accomplishment? That’s the pleasure she can’t forgo, and it far outweighs the missed episodes and social outings.

In the end, it’s about making choices that lead to the kind of life you really want. Sure, it’s hard to pass up short-term pleasures, but the deeper, more lasting joys are worth the wait. Keep your eyes on what truly matters to you, and those sacrifices won’t feel so much like sacrifices at all. They’ll be steps on the path to something you can’t bear to live without.