"It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows."
"In trying to please other people, we find ourselves misdirected toward what lies outside our sphere of influence. In doing so, we lose our hold on our lifes purpose."
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Source: The Art of Living: The Classic Manual on Virtue, Happiness, and Effectiveness, A New Interpretation by Sharon Lebell. Book by Epictetus, 1994.
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More quotes by Epictetus
"Any person capable of angering you becomes your master."
"Happiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle: Some things are within our control, and some things are not. It is only after you have faced up to this fundamental rule and learned to distinguish between what you can and can't control that inner tranquility and outer effectiveness become possible."
"Don't be concerned with other people's impressions of you. They are dazzled and deluded by appearances. Stick with your purpose. This alone will strengthen your will and give your life coherence."
"There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will."
"When you are offended at any man's fault, turn to yourself and study your own failings. Then you will forget your anger."