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Epictetus viewed philosophy as a rigorous athletic training for the soul. He mocked those who memorized books but fell apart in a crisis. 'The carpenter does not come and say, 'Hear me discourse about the art of carpentry,' but he shows you the house he has built. ' The discipline of Stoicism involves constant vigilance over one's impressions. It requires practicing voluntary hardship (askesis) to toughen the mind. Epictetus challenges us to stop talking about our principles and start embodying them.
"If you wish to be a writer, write."
"Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants."
"Control your passions lest they take vengeance on you."
"Difficulty shows what men are."
"Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things; and thence proceed to greater."
"If you would be a good reader, read; if a writer, write."
"Every habit and faculty is confirmed and strengthened by the corresponding actions."
"Curb your desire—don't set your heart on so many things and you will get what you need."
"Control your passions lest they take vengeance on thee."
"First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do."
"When you are offended at any man's fault, turn to yourself and study your own faults."
"If you want to be a writer, write."
"No man is free who is not master of himself."
Seeing how Epictetus approaches Discipline helps you apply the idea with more precision.
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"Use this collection whenever you need Epictetus's lens on Discipline."