“First say to yourself what you would be, then do what you have to do.”
What this quote means
Epictetus invites us to clearly define who we want to become before acting. This inner clarity is the foundation of any coherent endeavor. By first asking ourselves what we would be, we align our actions with our values and aspirations. This applies in moments of doubt or transition, where it's essential to refocus on what matters before acting.
How to apply it daily
Take a moment to write your ideal vision of yourself, then choose one action today that brings you closer to that vision.
Reading guide
Which book should you read to discover Epictetus?
Our starting point
A short, practical first approach
Enchiridion
In a few pages, it sets out the central distinction between what depends on us and what does not.
- Level
- Accessible
- Reading time
- 1–2 hours
- Formats to compare
- Print · Ebook · Audio
Merchant links help compare editions. Recommendations are editorially independent.
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