Does antiquity have something to tell us about our career? I found the story of Democritus fascinating and insightful.
I have been reading the book Flow which has been a fantastic read. There is a story of Democritus a deep thinker sitting around the stone bath deep in thought. This guy actually sat around thinking for days at a time. They even brought in the famous Hippocrates, the doctor, to see if he was psycho or sick. He was neither.
Our friend Democritus found great pleasure in meditating on the deeper realities of life and stated the importance of a cause. I greatly appreciated his quote regarding cause and happiness. “Happiness does not reside in strength or money; it lies in rightness and many sidedness”; “I would rather discover one true cause than gain the kingdom of Persia.” (Page 127 Flow)
What I observe from Democritus is that he prefers meaning, cause and connectedness to his life rather than riches. I wonder if Democritus ever experienced a time of great “stuckness” and found himself without clarity on what to do next in his career.
Do you agree with his statements? Why? or Why Not?