Live first, write second.
The essence of this quote underscores the importance of experiencing life fully before attempting to articulate or document it. Often, individuals might feel compelled to capture every moment through writing, photography, or social media to preserve memories or share experiences. However, this perspective can sometimes lead to living indirectly rather than immersing oneself fully in the present. Embracing the principle of living first encourages us to prioritize genuine experiences, personal growth, and emotional engagement without distraction. When we dedicate ourselves to living authentically, our writing naturally becomes more sincere, insightful, and meaningful because it is rooted in lived experience, not just observations or secondhand accounts. This approach reminds us that life offers a richness and depth that can't be fully conveyed unless we are truly present and engaged. The act of writing then becomes an extension of our lived reality, not a second-hand record. Moreover, immersing ourselves in real life helps us gather authentic stories and lessons that can inform our writing, making it richer and more compelling. In a society dominated by instant sharing and digital documentation, this quote advocates for a balance: live fully in the moment first, and then express those experiences genuinely through writing. It encourages mindfulness, patience, and prioritization of personal experiences over external validation or superficial documentation. Ultimately, living first enhances the quality and depth of our writing, making all our words more authentic and meaningful.