I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others.
Marcus AureliusRead
Let no act be done without purpose.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Every action should be guided by a clear intention or goal.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the importance of purpose in our actions. It suggests that without a clear intention behind what we do, our actions may lack direction and significance, leading to a life that is less meaningful and fulfilling. The notion conveys that being mindful about our intentions can lead to a more purposeful and impactful existence.
Themes
PurposeActionIntentionMeaningMindfulness
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a motivational speech about goal-setting.
More from Marcus Aurelius
All quotes βYou have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
Marcus AureliusRead
Do not act as if you were going to live ten thousand years. Death hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.
Marcus AureliusRead
Vex not thy spirit at the course of things; they heed not thy vexation. How ludicrous and outlandish is astonishment at anything that may happen in life.
Marcus AureliusRead
You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
Marcus AureliusRead
A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
Marcus AureliusRead
Similar quotes
I am indeed amazed when I consider how weak my mind is and how prone to error.
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I never had anyone I could call βMasterβ. No Christ died for me. No Buddha showed me the right path. In the depths of my dreams no Apollo or Athena appeared to me to enlighten my soul
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The broadest and most prevalent error requires the most disinterested virtue to sustain it.
Henry David ThoreauRead
The custom of Mother Church in baptizing infants is certainly not to be scorned, nor is it to be regarded in any way as superfluous, nor is it to be believed that its tradition is anything except apostolic.
Saint AugustineRead
... you could claim that anything's real if the only basis for believing in it is that nobody's proved it doesn't exist!
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This is essentially a people's contest... whose leading object is to elevate the condition of men - to lift artificial weights from all shoulders - to clear the paths of laudable pursuit for all - to afford all, an unfettered start and a fair chance, in the race of life.
Abraham LincolnRead