Stoicism is a way of life that stresses the importance of clearheadedness and mental vigilance. We should always be aware of what we are doing, why we are doing it, and what consequences it may have. This is also what Epictetus points out in the thirty-eight chapter of the Enchiridion.
Epictetus part 38: Watch your mind Read More »
Voluntary discomfort means: putting ourselves in situations that we don’t particularly like, in order to grow beyond them. In this article, let’s take a look at what the practice of voluntary discomfort entails.
Voluntary Discomfort
How enduring hardship makes you stronger Read More »
Don’t bite off more than you can chew: that is basically the message that Epictetus is conveying in the thirty-seventh chapter of the Enchiridion. While we all strive for the best in ourselves, we should moderate our spirit to what we can actually achieve at any given time. Slow and steady wins the race.
Epictetus part 37: Choosing the right role Read More »
Ethical dilemmas are of all times. Epictetus tells us to consider not only our own needs, but also our conduct towards others. Even if the two seem in contradiction with each other, we should consider both and moderate our own needs in order to behave appropriately in social settings. Our actions may have consequences for ourselves as well as for others.
Epictetus part 36: Selfish or social behaviour Read More »
A Stoic always does what ought to be done (i.e. what is virtuous). To him or her, it does not matter what others think. It if is right, the Stoic does it. If it is wrong, the Stoic does not do it. Epictetus summarizes this attitude as follows.
Epictetus part 35: Don’t be ashamed to do right Read More »
Epictetus makes a strong case for restraining your impulses for experiencing pleasures. On the short term, indulging in a pleasure may feel good, but in the long run it is better to act with self-control and discipline. In part 34 of the Encheiridion, he gives very clear instructions how to do this.
Epictetus part 34: Restraint Read More »
The thirty-third part of Epictetus’ Handbook contains a wealth of advice for living a good life. It is the longest part of the Encheiridion and gives an overview of best practices in a wide range of areas, particularly in social situations.
Epictetus part 33: 16 Lessons for Living Read More »
What is the source of a good and happy life? For constant happiness, we have to find a constant life. The person who is always chasing one thing and then moving on to the other, can never reach a state of lasting ‘eudaimonia’. He can never build his character and flourish.
Seneca part 23: An Endless Source of Joy Read More »
It happens to all of us: we get sick. Sometimes, our body decides it needs a time-out or it simply can’t take all that’s coming to it. And it feels terrible. But it is not the end of the world: we can use our mind to stand strong in the face of disease, and even become better because of it.
Ill and yet Happy
How to stand strong in the face of disease Read More »
For most of us, getting out of bed in the morning is not the easiest part of the day. When you are tucked in under warm and soft sheets, you probably don’t feel like stepping on the cold floor and getting active. Even though you know you should. Don’t worry: Marcus Aurelius has the answer we are all seeking.
How to get up in the morning
Remember your purpose and get active Read More »