12 Epictetus Quotes on Self improvement

Epictetus quotes on self improvement

1. To the rational being only the irrational is unendurable, but the rational is endurable.

3. No thing great is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer you that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.

4. Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things; and thence proceed to greater.

12. Whatever you would make habitual, practice it; and if you would not make a thing habitual, do not practice it, but accustom yourself to something else.

30. But God hath introduced Man to be a spectator of Himself and of His works; and not a spectator only, but also an interpreter of them. Wherefore it is a shame for man to begin and to leave off where the brutes do. Rather he should begin there, and leave off where Nature leaves off in us: and that is at contemplation, and understanding, and a manner of life that is in harmony with herself. See then that ye die not without being spectators of these things. (13)

39. A guide, on finding a man who has lost his way, brings him back to the right path-he does not mock and jeer at him and then take himself off. You also must show the unlearned man the truth, and you will see that he will follow. But so long as you do not show it him, you should not mock, but rather feel your own incapacity. (63)

43. If you have assumed a character beyond your strength, you have both played a poor figure in that, and neglected one that is within your powers. (79)

49. If thou wouldst make progress, be content to seem foolish and void of understanding with respect to outward things. Care not to be thought to know anything. If any should make account of thee, distrust thyself. (158)

60. Nature hath given men one tongue but two ears, that we may hear from others twice as much as we speak.

65. Exceed due measure, and the most delightful things become the least delightful.

67. A ship should not ride on a single anchor, nor life on a single hope.

77. Tentative efforts lead to tentative outcomes. Therefore, give yourself fully to your endeavors. Decide to construct your character through excellent actions, and determine to pay the price for a worthy goal. The trials you encounter will introduce you to your strengths. Remain steadfast... and one day you will build something that endures, something worthy of your potential.