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There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.
Epictetus
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Happiness comes from letting go of worries over things we cannot control.

Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher, teaches that true happiness can only be achieved when we stop worrying about circumstances that are beyond our control. By focusing our thoughts and efforts only on what we can influence, we free ourselves from unnecessary stress and find contentment in the present moment.

Themes

HappinessWorryControlStoicismEpictetus

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech about mental health, one might share this quote to encourage listeners to focus on what they can control.

More from Epictetus

Crows pick out the eyes of the dead, when the dead have no longer need of them; but flatterers mar the soul of the living, and her eyes they blind.
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Learn to distinguish what you can and can't control. Within our control are our own opinions, aspirations, desires and the things that repel us. They are directly subject to our influence.
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Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
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Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn't be affected by an incident unless you let it.
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The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
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Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
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