“It is not more vacation we need — it is more vocation.”
- October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962
- American
- First Lady of the United States, Diplomat, Human Rights Advocate, Chair of the UN Human Rights Commission
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Quote
“It is not more vacation we need — it is more vocation.”
Explanation
In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt distinguishes between rest and purpose, arguing that true fulfillment comes not from escape, but from meaningful work and a sense of calling. “Vacation” represents temporary relief or relaxation, while “vocation” refers to a deep sense of purpose or mission in life. Roosevelt suggests that the malaise people feel isn’t cured by more leisure, but by engaging with work that aligns with their values and passions.
Throughout her life, Roosevelt embodied this principle. She found her greatest satisfaction not in retreat, but in relentless service—advocating for human rights, writing daily, and traveling extensively to promote justice and dignity. Her quote reflects a belief that people thrive not when they rest more, but when they are more connected to what they feel matters most.
In today’s culture, where burnout and disconnection are common, this quote remains powerfully relevant. While rest is essential, Roosevelt reminds us that a life without meaningful engagement is equally exhausting. The cure for dissatisfaction may not be stepping back, but stepping forward into work that feels worthwhile, driven by vocation rather than mere obligation.
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