“Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.”
- October 25, 1881 – April 8, 1973
- Born in Spain
- Painter, sculptor, printmaker
- Founder of Cubism, he had a revolutionary influence on 20th century art, leaving behind masterpieces such as “Guernica”
Quote
“Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.”
Explanation
In this quote, Picasso highlights the importance of urgency and prioritization in life. He suggests that we should not procrastinate on tasks or goals that are meaningful to us—if we can accept leaving something undone as our legacy, then perhaps it doesn’t truly matter. Picasso’s words reflect his own approach to creativity and life, where he was constantly pushing himself to experiment and create without delay. For Picasso, every moment was an opportunity for artistic innovation, and he understood that time is finite. The idea of living fully and engaging with the present is central to this quote, urging us to recognize the things that are truly important and to take action on them now, without waiting for the future.
This perspective resonates today in a world where distractions and responsibilities can easily delay our personal and professional aspirations. In modern times, many people struggle with procrastination, constantly pushing off tasks or dreams, sometimes without realizing the consequences. Picasso’s quote reminds us that time is not infinite, and the things we deem worth doing should not be left to an uncertain future. By focusing on the things we are most passionate about and acting on them, we make our time more meaningful and purposeful.
An example of this is seen in the careers of successful entrepreneurs or artists, such as Steve Jobs or Oprah Winfrey, who emphasize the importance of taking risks and seizing opportunities immediately. Jobs, in particular, was known for his relentless pursuit of innovation and his belief in acting swiftly to bring new ideas to life. Similarly, Picasso’s own prolific output—constantly creating new work and challenging himself—embodies the essence of this quote. Picasso’s words encourage us to act with intention, making sure that the things we leave undone are not those that truly matter to us.
