“If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.”

— Lao Tzu

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“If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.”

Lao Tzu Lao Tzu
(Unknown -- Present)
Origin: Chinese
Known for: Philosopher
Meaning
This quote connects fulfilment to attitude, kindness, and presence rather than circumstance. The central idea is that peace and happiness are cultivated from within. The thought holds whether you are starting a new venture, recovering from a setback, or chasing a long-term goal. Coming from Lao Tzu, the ancient Taoist sage, the words carry added weight given a life that reflected them. Its appeal lies in turning a large ambition into a mindset you can act on today.
Author Spotlight

Lao Tzu

Lao Tzu was a Chinese philosopher. A Chinese philosopher. An ancient Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism. Their quotes on wisdom, inner peace and the search for meaning remain widely read and shared. Their teachings on wisdom, self-awareness and the search for meaning continue to guide people seeking clarity and inner strength.

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This quote is attributed to Lao Tzu. Lao Tzu was a Chinese philosopher. A Chinese philosopher. An ancient Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism. Their quotes on wisdom, inner peace and the…

This quote connects fulfilment to attitude, kindness, and presence rather than circumstance. The central idea is that peace and happiness are cultivated from within. The thought holds whether you are starting a new venture, recovering from a setback, or chasing a long-term goal. Coming from Lao Tzu, the ancient Taoist sage, the words carry added weight given a life that…

The wording and attribution are documented at en.wikiquote.org. Use the original source linked on this page to verify the exact phrasing and context.

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