Epictetus the Greek Stoic Philosopher wrote:
“Freedom and happiness come from understanding – and working within – our limits. Begin at once a program of self-mastery. Stick with your purpose. Do not seek external approval. Do not worry about anything outside of your control. The only things you command are your thoughts and actions. We choose our response. Stop aspiring to be anyone other than your own best self: for that does fall within your control.”
It’s easy in times like these to forget two fundamental lessons in this ancient wisdom.
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Stick with your purpose.
Use this time to reflect on why you are doing what you are doing. When all this is over, what will inspire you to rise each day? If you don’t know, take time to contemplate.
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We choose our response.
When chaos descends, never forget you have the power to choose. Your thoughts, your words, your actions. Don’t let your inner world be controlled by what is happening on the outside. You have greatness within and nothing else but you can control that.
Take care but don’t waste this opportunity to reflect.