Epictetus

Self-Laughter as a Practice of Resilience

Still, laughing at yourself is not the same as attacking yourself. Stoic practice aims for clear judgment, not cruelty, and the best self-humor carries a gentle humility: you acknowledge your limits without concluding that you are worthless. This distinction matters because self-mockery can become a disguised form of despair or a bid for reassurance. By contrast, constructive self-laughter keeps dignity intact. It says, in effect, “I can see my own absurdity, and I can still respect myself,” which makes it easier to apologize, adjust behavior, and maintain steady relationships even when you fail. [...]

Act Where Possible, Learn From Limits

Moreover, modern psychology corroborates this ancient map. Albert Ellis credited Epictetus for inspiring rational-emotive behavior therapy, often quoting, 'Men are disturbed not by things, but by the views which they take of them' (Enchiridion 5). Aaron Beck’s cognitive therapy similarly reframes distorted appraisals to change emotions and actions. A parallel appears in Reinhold Niebuhr’s Serenity Prayer (c. 1930s): asking for serenity to accept the unchangeable, courage to change the changeable, and wisdom to know the difference. Epictetus’s line adds a twist: acceptance is not mere serenity; it is pedagogical. What you cannot alter should still alter you—by teaching. [...]

No Great Thing Is Created Suddenly - Epictetus

It highlights the need for consistent effort and perseverance, suggesting that great achievements are the result of persistent hard work over time. [...]

First, Say to Yourself What You Would Be; And Then Do What You Have to Do - Epictetus

As a Stoic philosopher, Epictetus encourages individuals to focus on what is within their control. Choosing your path and acting on it are aspects within your power, while external results are secondary. [...]

If You Wish to Be a Writer, Write — Epictetus

The advice reflects the value of discipline. Writing consistently, whether inspired or not, plays a key role in progressing from an aspiring writer to a practicing one. [...]

The Essence of Philosophy: Independence from External Things — Epictetus

The idea also reflects the importance of emotional resilience. By not allowing external things to have power over our emotions, we become more free and less vulnerable to life's unpredictability. [...]

Act Not According to Your Desires, but According to Your Highest Principles — Epictetus

As a key figure in Stoicism, Epictetus promoted the idea of self-discipline and virtue. This quote underscores a central Stoic teaching: to remain indifferent to external influences and to only act in line with virtue and wisdom. [...]