There is no more miserable human being than one in whom nothing is habitual but indecision, and for whom the lighting of every cigar, the drinking of every cup, the time of rising and going to bed every day, and the beginning of every bit of work, are subjects of express volitional deliberation.
William JamesMental fire is what won't burn real sticks; mental water is what won't necessarily (though of course it may) put out even a mentalfire.
William JamesFrom all these facts there emerges a very simple abstract program for the teacher to follow in keeping the attention of the child: Begin with the line of his native interests, and offer him objects that have some immediate connection with these.
William JamesWhere quality is the thing sought after, the thing of supreme quality is cheap, whatever the price one has to pay for it.
William James