“There is one kind of robber whom the law does not strike at, and who steals what is most precious to men: time.”
- August 15, 1769 – May 5, 1821
- French of Italian descent
- French military officer and emperor
- Reorganized Europe after the French Revolution and built the foundations of the legal system in modern Europe
Quote
“There is one kind of robber whom the law does not strike at, and who steals what is most precious to men: time.”
Explanation
In this statement, Napoleon Bonaparte reflects on time as an invaluable resource that can be “stolen” in ways that the law cannot address. Unlike material possessions, time is something we can never recover once it is lost, making it one of life’s most precious assets. Napoleon suggests that while laws protect us from many forms of theft, wasted time—whether due to inefficiency, procrastination, distractions, or unproductive routines—remains outside legal control, yet it robs us of opportunities, progress, and fulfillment.
This insight is especially relevant in modern life, where people often feel time-constrained due to competing demands, technology distractions, and information overload. Napoleon’s words serve as a reminder to value our time and use it wisely, as it is a limited resource that we cannot regain. Recognizing the importance of time can encourage us to prioritize meaningful activities, make purposeful choices, and minimize distractions, thereby maximizing our productivity and well-being.
Napoleon’s perspective encourages us to guard against the “theft” of time, fostering a mindset that treats it as a precious asset. By being mindful of how we spend our time, we can make choices that align with our goals and values, creating a life that feels intentional and fulfilling. This approach inspires us to respect time as we would any valuable resource, appreciating its finite nature and the importance of investing it in pursuits that bring purpose and satisfaction.
