Previous Stoicism

THINK BEFORE YOU ACT

“For to be wise is only one thing- to fix our attention on our intelligence, which guides all things everywhere.”

- HERACLITUS, QUOTED IN DIOGENES LAERTIUS, LIVES OF THE EMINENT PHILOSOPHERS

Summary:
 Heraclitus emphasises that wisdom lies in focusing on and following our intelligence, which governs and informs everything. By aligning our actions with rational thought, we can navigate life effectively and harmoniously.

Interpretation:
 For readers of The Daily Stoic, this quote reinforces the Stoic idea of acting thoughtfully and with reason rather than impulsively. In real life, this could mean pausing to consider the consequences of your decisions before acting, such as carefully planning a response during a conflict instead of reacting in anger. By prioritising rationality and allowing your intelligence to guide your actions, you cultivate wisdom, maintain composure, and make choices that align with the Stoic ideal of living a virtuous and purposeful life.

 

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