Two principles we should always have ready — that there is nothing good or evil save in the will; and that we are not to lead events, but to follow them.

Nothing great comes into being all at once.

Never depend on the admiration of others for self-satisfaction. It is a fact of life that other people, even people who love you, will not necessarily agree with your ideas, understand you always, or share your enthusiasms.

If what charms you is nothing but abstract principles, sit down and turn them over quietly in your mind: but never dub yourself a Philosopher.

Do you know that disease and death must needs overtake us, no matter what we are doing?... what do you wish to be doing when it overtakes you?... If you have anything better to be doing when you are so overtaken, get to work on that.

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

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