Epictetus

We all carry the seeds of greatness within us, but we need an image as a point of focus in order that they may sprout.
– Epictetus

You can be happy if you know this secret: Some things are within your power to control and some things are not.
– Epictetus

If you want to improve, be content to be thought foolish and stupid.
– Epictetus

It’s time to stop being vague. If you wish to be an extraordinary person, if you wish to become wise, then you should explicitly identify the kind of person you aspire to become.
– Epictetus

There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.
– Epictetus

Keep your attention focused entirely on what is truly your own concern, and be clear that what belongs to others is their business and none of yours.
– Epictetus

It is our attitude toward events, not events themselves, which we can control. Nothing is by its own nature calamitous — even death is terrible only if we fear it.
– Epictetus

When you are offended at any man’s fault, turn to yourself and study your own failings. Then you will forget your anger.
– Epictetus

Watch yourself as you go about your daily business and later reflect on what you saw, trying to identify the sources of distress in your life and thinking about how to avoid that distress.
– Epictetus

Do not seek external approval. Do not worry about anything outside of your control. The only things you command are your thoughts and actions. We choose our response. Stop aspiring to be anyone other than your own best self: for that does fall within your control.
– Epictetus