In practice, Seneca prescribes gentle, repeated exposure to difficulty. Letters to Lucilius (Letter 18) advises setting aside days for simple meals, rough clothing, and the question, “Is this what I feared?” By courting mild discomfort on our own terms, we learn that comfort is optional and courage is trainable. This steady, honest rehearsal inoculates us against panic when fate withholds conveniences. Instead of sprinting toward soothing outcomes, we slow down and strengthen our capacity to act well under strain—so that, when comfort vanishes, our principles do not. [...]
