Never Experience Defeat Again
Chapter 19 / 53: According to Epictetus, entering into contests that you can lose is a foolish thing to do. This post explains exactly what that means.
All Bad Luck is Good Luck
Chapter 18 / 53: In Chapter 18 of the Enchiridion, Epictetus explains how we ought to think about "bad luck" signs, and whether anything can be truly unlucky.
Life is a Movie, Just Play Your Role
Chapter 17 / 53: So much in life depends on the luck we are dealt. We do not choose our genetics, our body, our brain, or our parents. How can we maintain peace of mind when so much of our life is outside of our control?
How Stoics Sympathise with Others
Chapter 16 / 53: Stoics often get this unfair reputation for being cold and lacking in compassion. This is less to do with Stoic philosophy, however, and more to do with the misinterpretation of Stoic principles.
How to Gain the Powers of a Stoic God
Chapter 15 / 53: The three levels of restraint include enslavement, wisdom, and divinity. This post explores the analogy Epictetus gives his student to go through the entire process.
Impossible Desires Cause Disappointment
Chapter 14 / 53: There are two main types of negative desires: "impossible desires" and "slave desires." This post explores how to avoid each one.
Do Not Wish to Appear Wise
Chapter 13 / 53: Many of us are interested in philosophy and self-improvement not to become wise, but for the reputation of being wise. Epictetus saw that this pattern of behaviour is very counter-productive if one wishes to acquire true wisdom.
How to Turn Stress Into Tranquility
Chapter 12 / 53: In today’s lesson, we will look at the irrational worry model built around “If/then” thinking about the future, why this causes us stress, and how to break the cycle.
Nothing Can Be "Lost"—Only "Returned"
Chapter 11 / 53: If you deeply recognise the facts that life is impermanent, ever-changing, and that everything we enjoy is a gift from the Universe, you can no longer suffer in the same way when things are taken from you.
Every Challenge is a Gift
Chapter 10 / 53: In this lesson, Epictetus explains that whenever we get confronted with challenges or temptations there is little need to worry—in fact, there is more reason to celebrate.
