What is the spoon full of oil in the Alchemist?

Answer 1

In the Alchemist:

A wise man tells a boy to go enjoy looking around his house and his garden, but there is a catch. He has to carry a spoon with two drops of oil while he does so without spilling the oil. He is unable to enjoy the view because he is too worried about the oil. Then he is told to go again and simply enjoy the house and garden, but he comes back with an empty spoon. The wise man says, "The secret to happiness is to see all marvels of the world, and never to forget the drops of oil in the spoon."

Answer 2

The spoon full of oil represents the importance of attention to detail and mindfulness in pursuit of one's personal legend as described in the novel "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. It signifies that success lies in the ability to focus on the present moment and give one's full dedication to the task at hand. By carefully attending to even the smallest of tasks, one can achieve their dreams and aspirations.