Plain
Epictetus — The Slave

When you decide something is the right thing to do, don't hide from doing it just because people might misunderstand. If what you're doing is wrong, then don't do it at all. But if it's right, why worry about people who criticize you unfairly?

The Enchiridion, Section 35 51 of 70
Doing The Right Thing Knowing Yourself
Epictetus — The Slave Original

When you do anything from a clear judgment that it ought to be done, never shrink from being seen to do it, even though the world should misunderstand it; for if you are not acting rightly, shun the action itself; if you are, why fear those who wrongly censure you?

The Enchiridion, Section 35 51 of 70
Epictetus — The Slave

When something tempting catches your eye, don't let it overwhelm you. Give yourself time. Don't rush into it. Picture two moments: the moment you'll enjoy the pleasure, and the moment afterward when you'll regret it and feel disappointed in yourself. Then picture how proud and happy you'll feel if you resist. Even if the temptation seems perfectly timed and reasonable, don't let it seduce you. Remember how much better it feels to win such a big victory over yourself.

The Enchiridion, Section 34 50 of 70
Knowing Yourself Doing The Right Thing
Epictetus — The Slave Original

If you are dazzled by the semblance of any promised pleasure, guard yourself against being bewildered by it; but let the affair wait your leisure, and procure yourself some delay. Then bring to your mind both points of time—that in which you shall enjoy the pleasure, and that in which you will repent and reproach yourself, after you have enjoyed it—and set before you, in opposition to these, how you will rejoice and applaud yourself if you abstain. And even though it should appear to you a seasonable gratification, take heed that its enticements and allurements and seductions may not subdue you, but set in opposition to this how much better it is to be conscious of having gained so great a victory.

The Enchiridion, Section 34 50 of 70
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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