Remember that you are an actor in a drama of such sort as the Author chooses: if short, then in a short one; if long, then in a long one. If it be His pleasure that you should enact a poor man, or a cripple, or a ruler, or a private citizen, see that you act it well. For this is your business, to act well the given part. But to choose it belongs to Another.
EpictetusTwo 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.
EpictetusIf you seek truth you will not seek victory by dishonorable means, and if you find truth you will become invincible.
EpictetusBe careful to leave your sons well instructed rather than rich, for the hopes of the instructed are better than the wealth of the ignorant.
EpictetusTo make anything a habit, do it; to not make it a habit, do not do it; to unmake a habit, do something else in place of it.
EpictetusFreedom and happiness come from understanding - and working with - our limits. Begin at once a program of self-mastery. Stick with your purpose. 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