"Travaillez comme si vous deviez vivre cent ans."

Living life with a sense of purpose and diligence is the essence of the quote. It encourages us to approach each day and task with the dedication and patience as if we have ample time—100 years—to create, build, and grow. This mindset isn't just about working hard; it's about investing in your future self, laying down the groundwork for long-term achievements, and recognizing that significant accomplishments take time.

Historically, such a perspective might have been shared during times when people were encouraged to think long-term—perhaps during periods of rebuilding or growth, like post-war eras when societies were focused on reconstruction and looking ahead. Think about our grandparents or great-grandparents who, after the wars, had to rebuild their lives, their homes, and their communities. They couldn’t afford to think short-term; they had to believe in a future they couldn't yet see.

Now, picture a gardener planting a tree. They know that they won't see that tree grow to its full height, maybe not even the full spread of its branches, but they plant it anyway. Why? Because they believe in the future. They have faith that their work now will benefit generations to come. This is the same principle. When you work with the idea that you have a long life ahead of you, you’re more likely to make decisions that are sustainable and beneficial in the long run.

So how do you apply this wisdom practically? Let's break it down. Start with your daily tasks. Instead of rushing through them to just get them done, think about how you can do them well, so they benefit you or others down the line. For instance, if you’re working on a project at work, don’t just aim to complete it—aim to complete it in a way that will set up the next phase smoothly. This might mean spending extra time refining details or thinking ahead about potential challenges and solutions.

Similarly, in your personal life, consider learning new skills or nurturing relationships with a long-term view. Imagine you're learning to play the guitar. If you practice with the mindset that you’re going to be playing for many years to come, you’ll be more patient with your progress, more consistent with your practice, and ultimately, you’ll enjoy a richer experience.

Let me tell you a story. Picture Sarah, a young woman who started a small tech company in her garage. In the early days, she didn’t focus on quick profits. Instead, she invested in building a strong foundation—high-quality products, great customer service, and a solid team. She worked long hours, not because she wanted immediate success, but because she believed in her vision for the company’s future. Years later, her company didn't just survive; it thrived. It became a respected name in the industry, and Sarah’s initial patience and dedication paid off in a big way.

So, as you move through your day, think about the long game. Don’t just work for today’s payoff. Build something that will last, something you’ll be proud of in the future. Embrace the idea that your efforts now are seeds for tomorrow’s trees. And remember, sometimes the best things in life take time to grow.