Previous Stoicism

WISH NOT, WANT NOT

“Remember that it’s not only the desire for wealth and position that debases and subjugates us, but also the desire for peace, leisure, travel, and learning. It doesn’t matter what the external thing is, the value we place on it subjugates us to another … where our heart is set, there our impediment lies.”

- EPICTETUS, DISCOURSES

Summary:

Epictetus warns that attachment to any external desire—whether wealth, status, or even seemingly noble pursuits like peace, travel, or learning—can enslave us. It is not the object of desire itself that subjugates us, but the power we give it over our emotions and sense of fulfilment. Wherever we place our deepest longing, we also place our vulnerability, making us dependent on external circumstances for happiness.

Interpretation:

In real life, this means recognising when our happiness is contingent on something outside our control. For example, if we believe we can only be happy once we achieve financial security, travel the world, or gain recognition, we set ourselves up for frustration and disappointment. True freedom comes from detaching our well-being from external conditions and instead cultivating contentment within. By focusing on what we can control—our mindset, actions, and character—we free ourselves from unnecessary suffering and live with greater peace.

 

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