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
The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature.
Interpretation
Your happiness is influenced by your thoughts, so maintain positive and virtuous thinking.
This quote emphasizes the importance of conscious thought management in achieving happiness. Marcus Aurelius suggests that the quality of our thoughts plays a crucial role in our life satisfaction and urges us to cultivate virtuous and reasonable ideas to promote well-being.
In practice
In a motivational speech about mental health, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of positive thinking.
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.
You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
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.
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.
You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
I learned you could suffer a terrible tragedy and still be happy again.
Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action.
The right to happiness is fundamental; men live so little time and die alone.
When you rise in the morning, give thanks for the light, for your life, for your strength.
Left to my own devices, would I trade this for firm thighs, fewer wrinkles, a better memory? On some days. That's why it's such a blessing I'm not left to my own devices. Because the truth is I have amazing friends and a deep faith in God, to whom I can turn. I have a cool kid, a sweet boyfriend, darling pets. I've learned to pay attention to life, and to listen. I'd give up all this for a flatter belly? Are you crazy?
I am so far from being a pessimist...on the contrary, in spite of my scars, I am tickled to death at life.
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