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.
EpictetusRead
When something happens, the only thing in your power is your attitude toward it. It is not the things that disturb us, but our interpretation of their significance. Things and people are not what we wish them to be nor are they what they seem to be. They are what they are.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our response to events is within our control, not the events themselves.
This quote from Epictetus emphasizes that the power lies in our attitudes and interpretations rather than the events that happen around us. It teaches that while we cannot change circumstances or people, we can control how we perceive and react to them, suggesting that our mindset defines our experiences more than the reality of the situation.
Themes
AttitudeInterpretationPowerControlMindset
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting where unexpected challenges arise, use this quote to remind colleagues to focus on their attitudes.
More from Epictetus
All quotes βLearn 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.
EpictetusRead
Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
EpictetusRead
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.
EpictetusRead
The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
EpictetusRead
Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
EpictetusRead
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