“Lost time is never found again.”
- January 17, 1706 – April 17, 1790
- American
- Polymath, Founding Father of the United States, Inventor, Diplomat, Writer
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Quote
“Lost time is never found again.”
Explanation
This quote by Benjamin Franklin conveys a timeless truth about the irreversibility of time. The phrase “lost time” refers to moments wasted or neglected, while “never found again” underscores the fact that once a moment has passed, it cannot be reclaimed. Franklin uses this succinct observation to stress the preciousness of time and the need to use it wisely.
As a leading figure of the Enlightenment, Franklin believed in the disciplined use of time as a cornerstone of success and moral living. In his Poor Richard’s Almanack, he often urged readers to avoid idleness and to seize the day. This quote reflects that ethos, suggesting that wasted opportunities are among the greatest losses in life, because time, unlike money or possessions, cannot be regained.
In the modern world, where distractions are abundant and time management is a common struggle, Franklin’s message is more relevant than ever. It encourages individuals to prioritize their goals, act promptly, and value each moment. Whether in personal development, relationships, or career, the quote serves as a reminder that what we do today shapes what is possible tomorrow—and what is lost can never be retrieved.
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