"考える習慣を身につけることを決心しない人は、人生で最大の喜びを逃している。"

Thinking is the most fundamental activity we engage in. It's what separates us from other animals and allows us to innovate, create, and solve problems. When you don't take time to really think—I'm talking about deep, meaningful reflection—you miss out on a lot. There's something incredibly satisfying about pondering life’s big questions, wrestling with complex ideas, and ultimately arriving at your own conclusions.

This saying resonates with me personally. It’s not just about making decisions, but about cultivating a habit of critical thinking. The phrase isn't from some stuffy old philosopher, but it's still got that timeless truth. Ever wondered why some people seem to have richer, more fulfilling lives? They're probably the ones who’ve made a habit of deep thinking. They're the ones who don’t just float along with the current but actually swim against it when necessary.

Take Steve Jobs, for example. He was a guy who spent a lot of time thinking—really thinking. Whether he was considering product design, company direction, or personal matters, Jobs would often retreat to a quiet space to think things through. This habit helped him revolutionize multiple industries—computers, music, phones. Imagine what the world would look like if he hadn't taken the time to think deeply about his ideas. We might not have the iPhone, the MacBook, or even Pixar.

So, what can you do to apply this wisdom in your own life? First off, carve out time for thinking. It sounds simple, but in our fast-paced, always-connected world, it’s hard. Disconnect from your devices for a bit. Take a walk, sit in a quiet room, or just lie on your bed staring at the ceiling. Let your mind wander. Think about your goals, your relationships, the world around you. Question things. Why are they the way they are? How could they be different? What can you do about it?

When I was in college, I used to stop by a local coffee shop every Sunday morning. I’d grab a latte, find a cozy corner, and just think. No laptop, no phone, just a notebook and my thoughts. It was during those sessions that I made some of the most important decisions in my life. I figured out what I wanted to major in, decided on career paths, and even resolved personal issues. Those were some of the most pleasurable and productive hours of my week.

Imagine you're facing a tough decision, like whether to take a new job in a different city. It's easy to get bogged down in the logistics, but take some time to really think about it. What does this job mean for your career long term? How will the move affect your personal life? What’s your gut telling you? By taking the time to think deeply about these questions, you’re not just making a decision—you’re training your brain to think critically.

In essence, deep thinking is like a muscle. The more you exercise it, the stronger it gets. You become better at solving problems, making decisions, and even understanding yourself. So next time you find yourself with a few free moments, resist the urge to scroll through your phone. Instead, let your mind wander. You might just find that thinking, in itself, is one of life’s greatest pleasures.