In her book "Plato at the Googleplex," Rebecca Goldstein emphasizes the importance of meaningful effort in our lives. She suggests that simply going through the motions without substantial effort or impact diminishes the value of our existence. This perspective challenges individuals to engage more deeply and thoughtfully with their actions and intentions.

Goldstein's quote provokes reflection on how we measure the significance of our contributions. It underscores that true fulfillment and the essence of being alive come from active participation and genuine exertion in pursuing our goals. Without meaningful engagement, our presence may feel inconsequential, prompting a reevaluation of our motivations and actions in life.