“Few can be induced to labor exclusively for posterity, and none will do it enthusiastically. Posterity has done nothing for us; and, theorize on it as we may, practically we shall do very little for it unless we are made to think we are at the same time doing something for ourselves.”
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About this quote
Line forces a hard look: most people won't invest in a distant future that feels abstract or unrewarding. Ask what immediate payoff or clear feedback will make long-term work worth your time. Build plans with short-term wins, measure progress, and hold yourself accountable so the future doesn't stay someone else's problem.
When to use it
- Tell a teammate who's always 'saving effort for later' that posterity won't motivate action — set a small reward this week and start now.
- When planning a long-term project, break it into monthly milestones so you get real progress now, not just promises to the future.
- Use the line to remind yourself that noble goals need practical incentives: ask what you gain today for the work you do for tomorrow.
- If you're leading volunteers, stop selling only the distant outcome. Create tasks that give immediate meaning and visible results.