“I am not young but I feel young. The day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there. J’aime la vie! I feel that to live is a wonderful thing.”
- August 19, 1883 – January 10, 1971
- Born in France
- Designer, businesswoman
- Founded the Chanel brand and advocated modern and simple fashion, especially popularizing the “Chanel suit” and “little black dress,” and contributing to the liberation of women.
Quote
“I am not young but I feel young. The day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there. J’aime la vie! I feel that to live is a wonderful thing.”
Explanation
In this quote, Coco Chanel expresses a deep, abiding love for life, embracing the vitality of living regardless of one’s age. The phrase “I am not young but I feel young” suggests that age is a matter of mindset rather than just biological years. Chanel, who lived a long and full life, was known for her youthful spirit and uncompromising energy, continuing to innovate and work well into her later years. This attitude challenges societal norms that often associate age with decline or the end of possibilities, presenting a refreshing perspective on the relationship between age and vitality.
Chanel’s statement also highlights her rejection of the concept of “feeling old.” When she says, “the day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there,” she underscores the idea that one’s mental and emotional attitude towards life is a key determinant of how we experience it. This is a timeless message that resonates in contemporary culture, where many people feel compelled to remain active and engaged despite advancing years. The quote encourages individuals to focus on the joys of life and gratitude for the opportunities it presents, rather than on the limitations that may come with age.
Her declaration of “J’aime la vie!” (I love life!) captures the essence of her philosophy: a celebration of living fully, no matter one’s stage in life. This kind of zeal for life is something that can be applied to today’s world as well. Whether through creativity, relationships, or pursuing passions, Chanel’s words inspire people to approach every day with a sense of wonder and enthusiasm, recognizing that the richness of life is available to everyone, no matter how old they are.
