Quotes from Epictetus
To accuse others for one's own misfortunes is a sign of want of education. To accuse oneself shows that one's education has begun. To accuse neither oneself nor others shows that one's education is complete.
- Epictetus
What disturbs and alarms man are not the things, but his opinions and fancies about the things.
- Epictetus
In theory it is easy to convince an ignorant person; in actual life, men not only object to offer themselves to be convinced, but hate the man who has convinced them.
- Epictetus
If I can acquire money and also keep myself modest and faithful and magnanimous, point out the way, and I will acquire it.
- Epictetus
Getting distracted by trifles is the easiest thing in the world… Focus on your main duty.
- Epictetus
The flourishing life cannot be achieved until we moderate our desires and see how superficial and fleeting they are.
- Epictetus
If you can make music with someone you don't need words. If you wish to be a writer, write.
- Epictetus
Don't explain your philosophy. Embody it.
- Epictetus
It is our attitude toward events, not events themselves, which we can control. Nothing is by its own nature calamitous -- even death is terrible only if we fear it.
- Epictetus
Shall I show you the sinews of a philosopher? What sinews are those? - A will undisappointed; evils avoided; powers daily exercised; careful resolutions; unerring decisions.
- Epictetus
The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best.
- Epictetus
Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control.
- Epictetus