Previous Stoicism

CIRCLE OF CONTROL

“We control our reasoned choice and all acts that depend on that moral will. What’s not under our control are the body and any of its parts, our possessions, parents, siblings, children, or country anything with which we might associate.”

- EPICTETUS, DISCOURSEs

Summary:

Epictetus teaches that our control lies in our reasoned choices and the actions we take based on our will. Everything else, including our body, possessions, family, and even our country, are beyond our control. Understanding this distinction is key to living a peaceful life, as it helps us focus on what we can influence.

Interpretation:

For a Daily Stoic reader, this quote highlights the core Stoic principle of distinguishing between what is within our control and what isn’t. We can’t control the actions of others, our physical appearance, or external events, but we can control our thoughts, decisions, and responses to these challenges. By focusing on our inner responses rather than trying to control external circumstances, we can maintain our peace and act with wisdom, regardless of the chaos around us.

 

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