Quote of the day by Socrates: "He who is not contented with what he has...'

Quote of the day: Sometimes all you need is a little motivational push to excel in life and overcome hurdles. Today, riding on that positivity train, we shall revisit one of the famous quotes by the renowned Greek philosopher Socrates. In the 'quote' used today, he opened up about desires and how one staying unhappy is more of a habit of the mind, and not a lack of anything. Check out his quote below:

"He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have." ―     Socrates

Meaning of the quote

Socrates' quote means that contentment comes from an internal state of being rather than external possessions, wealth, or status. It refers to the fact that he who is not satisfied with what he has at present is likely to remain anxious and not happy with what he will get in future also. It hints at how wanting things does not end when you get them.

Who was Socrates?

Socrates is known to be a huge influence on his student Plato, who founded the tradition of Western philosophy. His writings in the form of dialogues are known to the world through the posthumous accounts of classical writers, particularly his students Plato and Xenophon.

He was married twice - he married Xanthippe in his 50s, and another marriage was with a daughter of Aristides, an Athenian statesman. He had three sons with Xanthippe. Socrates fulfilled his military service during the Peloponnesian War and distinguished himself in three campaigns, according to Plato.

He was accused of impiety and corrupting the youth. After a trial that lasted a day, he was sentenced to death. Plato's dialogues are considered to be the most comprehensive accounts of Socrates.

According to the Phaedo, his last words were: "Crito, we owe a rooster to Asclepius. Don't forget to pay the debt."

Of all the works written about Socrates' trial, only three survive: Plato's Apology, Xenophon's Apology, and Xenophon's Memorabilia.