John Dryden: 'We first make our habits, and then our habits make us.'

We first make our habits, and then our habits make us.

The quote by John Dryden, "We first make our habits, and then our habits make us," encapsulates the idea that our actions, behaviors, and routines have a profound impact on shaping our character and defining who we become. It serves as a reminder that the choices we make in our daily lives, whether conscious or unconscious, play a significant role in shaping our future selves.At a straightforward level, the quote emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and self-awareness. It suggests that every decision we make, from the moment we wake up until we go to bed, contributes to the formation of our habits. These habits, in turn, influence our thoughts, attitudes, and ultimately, our character.Consider the habit of regular exercise. By choosing to prioritize physical activity and incorporating it into our daily routine, we not only strengthen our bodies but also cultivate discipline, perseverance, and a sense of achievement. Over time, this physical habit can transform us into individuals who are resilient, determined, and health-conscious.Alternatively, let's explore a philosophical concept to introduce an unexpected twist to the article - existentialism. Existentialism asserts that individuals are entirely responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life. This perspective aligns with Dryden's quote, highlighting how our habits contribute to the construction of our personal narratives.Existentialists embrace the idea that life is fundamentally absurd and devoid of inherent meaning. In this context, our habitual actions take on new significance. Each choice we make, each habit we form represents a conscious contribution to our personal journey, a way of imbuing life with meaning amidst the existential void.Consider the habit of journaling. Embracing this practice allows us to reflect on our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. We create a space for introspection, self-discovery, and projecting our aspirations onto the blank pages. Through journaling, we actively engage in the process of self-creation, shaping our narrative and giving our lives the meaning we desire.Now, let's contrast Dryden's quote with the existentialist philosophy. While both emphasize personal responsibility and the importance of habits, they diverge in their recognition of external influences. Dryden's quote implies that our habits alone shape us, suggesting an internal locus of control. In contrast, existentialism acknowledges the impact of external factors on our lives, such as societal norms, cultural values, and chance events.For example, the habit of conformity to societal expectations might be viewed differently from these two perspectives. From Dryden's point of view, this habit, when adopted without thought, may lead to an individual's complete assimilation into the societal norm, causing them to lose their uniqueness and independent thinking. However, from an existentialist perspective, the habit of conformity might be seen as an individual's active choice to navigate their way through the complexities of societal expectations while still attempting to create their own meaning.In conclusion, John Dryden's quote, "We first make our habits, and then our habits make us" urges us to be conscious of the choices we make daily. It emphasizes personal responsibility and self-awareness, recognizing that our habits shape our character and ultimately determine the course of our lives. Introducing the philosophical concept of existentialism adds an unexpected dimension, highlighting the active role we play in creating meaning and purpose in our lives. By acknowledging the interplay between our habits and the external world, we can navigate the journey of self-discovery and personal growth more deliberately, shaping our lives in alignment with our values and aspirations.