Jawaharlal Nehru: 'Action itself, so long as I am convinced that it is right action, gives me satisfaction.'

Action itself, so long as I am convinced that it is right action, gives me satisfaction.

In his quote, 'Action itself, so long as I am convinced that it is right action, gives me satisfaction,' Jawaharlal Nehru beautifully encapsulates an essential aspect of human nature - the yearning for fulfillment through purposeful engagement. This quote can be easily understood as Nehru emphasizing his belief that taking appropriate actions, guided by a sense of righteousness, creates a deep sense of gratification within him. The importance of this quote lies in its ability to remind individuals of the power and significance of acting in alignment with one's principles and convictions.However, let us now delve into a more unexpected and philosophical concept to explore a deeper understanding of Nehru's words. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that gained prominence in the 20th century, could shed light on why Nehru's quote resonates so strongly with many people.Existentialism explores themes of individual freedom, responsibility, and the inherent need to find meaning in life. According to existentialists, life is characterized by a lack of predetermined purpose or inherent meaning. It is up to each individual to derive meaning through their actions and choices. In this view, action becomes the primary pathway to establish one's own purpose and create a sense of self-fulfillment.Drawing from existentialist ideas, Nehru's quote takes on a profound meaning. It suggests that engaging in what one believes to be right action not only satisfies the individual but also becomes a means of self-actualization and purposeful existence. Nehru highlights the importance of aligning our actions with our convictions, as it allows us to forge a sense of identity and fulfillment.The contrast arises when we consider the consequences of acting without conviction or merely following the crowd. Such actions may not provide the same level of gratification and may even lead to feelings of emptiness or regret. Nehru's emphasis on being "convinced" of the rightness of one's actions calls for individuals to cultivate a sense of introspection and critically evaluate their choices. This encourages us to engage in conscious decision-making and to avoid acting out of societal pressures or conformity.Moreover, Nehru's quote also underscores the subjective nature of satisfaction and the importance of internal validation. It suggests that true gratification lies not in the opinions or recognition of others but in our own conviction of what is right. This inner satisfaction acts as a compass, guiding us toward honorable action while finding fulfillment within ourselves rather than seeking external validation.In a world that often values achievement, success, and recognition, Nehru reminds us of the intrinsic rewards of acting in accordance with our principles. It is in choosing to do what we believe is right that we experience genuine satisfaction and a deep sense of purpose. By shifting the focus from external achievements to the quality of our actions, Nehru's quote challenges us to reflect on our own values, motivations, and the impact our choices have on ourselves and those around us.Ultimately, Nehru's words inspire us to strive for personal integrity and to create a world where action is driven by moral convictions. By urging us to be conscious of our choices and pursue what we believe to be right action, he beckons us to embrace a more purposeful, fulfilling, and authentic way of living.