Epictetus Inspirational Quotations

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.

Know, first, who you are, and then adorn yourself accordingly.

It is impossible to begin to learn that which one thinks one already knows.

People are not disturbed by things, but by the view they take of them.

The essence of philosophy is that a man should so live that his happiness shall depend as little as possible on external things.

Whoever does not regard what he has as most ample wealth, is unhappy, though he be master of the world.

No great thing is created suddenly.

Any person capable of angering you becomes your master; he can anger you only when you permit yourself to be disturbed by him.

Nothing great is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig.

We are not disturbed by what happens to us, but by our thoughts about what happens to us.

Unremarkable lives are marked by the fear of not looking capable when trying something new.

-….when things seem to have reached that stage, merely say “I won’t play any longer”, and take your departure; but if you stay, stop lamenting.

Nature hath given men one tongue but two ears, that we may hear from others twice as much as we speak.

Events do not just happen, but arrive by appointment.

It is your own convictions which compels you; that is, choice compels choice.

It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows.

Difficulties show men what they are. In case of any difficulty, remember that God has pitted you against a rough antagonist that you may be a conqueror, and this cannot be without toil.

Don't explain your philosophy. Embody it.

Fortify yourself with contentment, for this is an impregnable fortress.

No matter what happens, it is within my power to turn it to my advantage.

Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.

Difficulty shows what men are. Therefore when a difficulty falls upon you, remember that God, like a trainer of wrestlers, has matched you with a rough young man. Why? So that you may become an Olympic conqueror; but it is not accomplished without sweat.

Circumstances don't make the man, they only reveal him to himself.

Attach yourself to what is spiritually superior, regardless of what other people think or do. Hold to your true aspirations no matter what is going on around you.