Meaning: This quote by B. C. Forbes, the founder of Forbes magazine, emphasizes the importance of engaging in productive activities to alleviate worry and promote a sense of well-being. The advice to turn resolutely to work, recreation, or physical exercise until exhaustion sets in highlights the idea that keeping oneself occupied can help in managing worries and anxieties. Forbes suggests that by immersing oneself in physical or mental activities, one can achieve a state of fatigue that leads to restful sleep and diminishes the inclination to worry upon waking.

Engaging in work, recreational activities, or physical exercise serves as a form of distraction from worries and concerns. When individuals channel their energy and focus into these activities, they are able to shift their attention away from troubling thoughts, which can often lead to a reduction in anxiety and stress. This redirection of attention allows for a break from the cycle of worry and enables individuals to experience a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment from their chosen activities.

Furthermore, the physical aspect of the advice is noteworthy. Physical exercise has been widely recognized for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. When individuals engage in exercise, the body releases endorphins, which are known to elevate mood and reduce the perception of pain. Additionally, exercise can act as a form of meditation in motion, allowing individuals to concentrate on the physical movements and sensations, thus providing a mental break from worries.

Additionally, the quote underscores the importance of achieving physical exhaustion through productive endeavors. When individuals expend their energy through work or recreational activities, they are more likely to experience a sense of physical tiredness that can facilitate restful sleep. This approach aligns with the principles of good sleep hygiene, which emphasize the benefits of physical fatigue in promoting sound and rejuvenating sleep.

It is important to consider the context in which B. C. Forbes offered this advice. As a journalist and entrepreneur, Forbes was likely familiar with the demands and pressures of a fast-paced, high-stakes environment. His recommendation to combat worry through purposeful engagement with work and recreation reflects an understanding of the psychological and physiological benefits of keeping busy and staying active.

In conclusion, B. C. Forbes' quote advocates for the proactive management of worry through purposeful engagement in work, recreation, and physical exercise. By immersing oneself in productive activities, individuals can effectively distract their minds from worries, experience the benefits of physical exertion, and achieve a sense of fulfillment that contributes to overall well-being. This advice aligns with contemporary understanding of stress management and the promotion of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.