To prove this is true, redirect your effort. You used to work hard chasing those other things. Now work just as hard on these things instead. Stay alert to develop thinking that will free you. Court a philosopher instead of a rich old man. Be seen hanging around a philosopher's door. You won't disgrace yourself by being seen there. You won't leave empty-handed or without benefit if you approach the philosopher the right way. And if you don't succeed? At least try. There's no shame in trying.
And that you may know that this is true, as you have labored for those things, so transfer your labor to these: be vigilant for the purpose of acquiring an opinion which will make you free; pay court to a philosopher instead of to a rich old man; be seen about a philosopher's doors; you will not disgrace yourself by being seen; you will not go away empty nor without profit, if you go to the philosopher as you ought, and if not (if you do not succeed), try at least; the trial (attempt) is not disgraceful.