By subscribing to Inspiring Quotes you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
The English philosopher Francis Bacon wrote this line in his 1605 book, “The Proficience and Advancement of Learning.” With it, he suggests that in order to be happy, it’s important to do first what we believe is honorable and right. Bacon warned that, paradoxically, chasing success can sometimes be the least effective way to reach joy. "Fortune,” he wrote, “hath somewhat of the nature of a woman, that if she be too much wooed, she is the farther off." But if we live with virtue, he suggests, then good fortune will come our way — or, we’ll discover that a virtuous life can itself be the root of happiness.

15 Life-Changing Quotes From Marcus Aurelius’ ‘Meditations’

15 Quotes To Send To Long-Distance Friends

17 Empowering Quotes from Female Athletes

Quotes To Help You Stay Young and Spry Forever

Advice From Our Favorite Children’s TV Characters

11 Quotes To Help a Friend Through a Tough Time

13 Quotes To Challenge You To Rethink Your Preconceived Notions

The Oldest Jokes in History

Unconventional Aging Advice From 10 Centenarians

13 Hilariously Relatable Quotes From ‘Garfield’

16 Helpful Quotes To Read When Your Relationship Is Struggling