First, don't let these mental images rush you into action. Tell them: 'Wait a minute. Let me see what you really are. Let me test you.' Don't let the image pull you along by painting exciting pictures of what might happen next. If you do, it will drag you wherever it wants. Instead, bring up a different image — something beautiful and noble — to push out this ugly one. If you practice this regularly, you'll discover what kind of strength you really have. Right now it's just empty talk and nothing more. This is what a true athlete does — someone who trains against these mental images. Stop, you fool! Don't get carried away. This is a huge fight. The work is sacred. You're fighting for control of your life, for freedom, for happiness, for peace of mind.
But in the first place, be not hurried away by the rapidity of the appearance, but say, Appearances, wait for me a little; let me see who you are, and what you are about; let me put you to the test. And then do not allow the appearance to lead you on and draw lively pictures of the things which will follow; for if you do, it will carry you off wherever it pleases. But rather bring in to oppose it some other beautiful and noble appearance, and cast out this base appearance. And if you are accustomed to be exercised in this way, you will see what shoulders, what sinews, what strength you have. But now it is only trifling words, and nothing more. This is the true athlete, the man who exercises himself against such appearances. Stay, wretch, do not be carried away. Great is the combat, divine is the work; it is for kingship, for freedom, for happiness, for freedom from perturbation.