Freedom is secured not by the fulfillment of one's desires, but by the removal of desire.

If you hear that someone is speaking ill of you, instead of trying to defend yourself you should say: 'He obviously does not know me very well, since there are so many other faults he could have mentioned.'

Confidence in nonsense is a requirement for the creative process.

What is it that every man seeks? To be secure, to be happy, to do what he pleases without restraint and without compulsion.

Don't be concerned with other people's impressions of you. They are dazzled and deluded by appearances. Stick with your purpose. This alone will strengthen your will and give your life coherence.

It is unlikely that the good of a snail should reside in its shell: so is it likely that the good of a man should?

One that desires to excel should endeavor in those things that are in themselves most excellent.