Indira Gandhi: 'Have a bias toward action - let's see something happen now. You can break that big plan into small steps and take the first step right away.'

Have a bias toward action - let's see something happen now. You can break that big plan into small steps and take the first step right away.

The quote by Indira Gandhi, "Have a bias toward action - let's see something happen now. You can break that big plan into small steps and take the first step right away," emphasizes the significance of taking immediate action and breaking down daunting tasks into manageable steps. At its core, this quote encourages us to overcome the inertia of indecisiveness and start making progress towards our goals. It serves as a reminder that grand plans and ideas can only become reality when we actively work towards them.The straightforward interpretation of this quote is that having a bias toward action means prioritizing action over contemplation or inaction. It implies a proactive attitude where waiting for the perfect moment is replaced by seizing opportunities and initiating the process of achieving our aspirations. Breaking down a large plan into smaller steps helps to overcome the feeling of overwhelm that often arises when faced with a seemingly insurmountable task. By taking immediate action, we establish momentum and set ourselves up for success.However, let us now delve into a concept that might not be expected in the context of this quote - existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought, explores the meaning and purpose of human existence, emphasizing individual freedom, personal responsibility, and the importance of action. While Gandhi's quote does not explicitly reference existentialism, it aligns remarkably well with its principles and offers an interesting perspective when compared and contrasted.Existentialism asserts that individuals create their own meaning and define their existence through their actions. It emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our choices and accepting the consequences that arise from them. In this framework, the notion of breaking a big plan into smaller steps becomes more profound. It not only helps with tackling practical tasks but also reflects the existentialist belief that by taking small but deliberate actions, we actively shape our lives.Moreover, the existentialist concept of authenticity aligns with Gandhi's quote. Authenticity, in existentialism, refers to living according to our true selves, disregarding societal expectations or external influences. By having a bias toward action and taking the first step right away, we assert our individual agency and show commitment to our authentic desires and aspirations. This philosophy challenges us to reflect on whether our actions align with our true selves, underscoring the importance of personal responsibility.In contrast to existentialism, which focuses on individual responsibility, Gandhi's quote touches upon the idea that action is not solely an individual pursuit but can also bring about collective change. Gandhi's emphasis on "let's see something happen now" highlights the importance of collaborative action and the power of collective efforts in achieving progress. It reminds us that our actions can influence and inspire others, leading to broader effects on our communities and society as a whole.To conclude, Indira Gandhi's quote is a call to action, urging us to take the first step towards our goals without hesitation. While its straightforward meaning encourages proactive behavior and breaking down grand plans, an unexpected parallel to existentialism provides a deeper perspective. By aligning with existentialist principles such as individual responsibility and authenticity, we can appreciate how taking action becomes a means of shaping our own existence. Furthermore, the quote also emphasizes the potential impact of collective action, reminding us of the transformative power that can arise when individuals come together. Ultimately, having a bias toward action enables us to actively participate in and contribute to the unfolding of our own lives and the world around us.