First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- First decide who you want to become, then act accordingly to achieve that identity.
- In plain terms
- Define your ideal self, then do what’s needed.
- What can you take from it?
- Set a clear self‑image and act to match it.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does your ideal self look like?
- How do you bridge the gap between vision and action?
Another view
Self‑image can be unrealistic without feedback.
More from Epictetus
Two principles we should always have ready - that there is nothing good or evil save in the will; and that we are not to lead events, but to follow them.
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