Oscar Wilde: 'Our ambition should be to rule ourselves, the true kingdom for each one of us; and true progress is to know more, and be more, and to do more.'

Our ambition should be to rule ourselves, the true kingdom for each one of us; and true progress is to know more, and be more, and to do more.

The quote by Oscar Wilde, "Our ambition should be to rule ourselves, the true kingdom for each one of us; and true progress is to know more, and be more, and to do more," encapsulates the essence of personal growth and self-development. At its core, this statement highlights the importance of taking control of our own lives and continuously striving for improvement. Wilde urges us to see ourselves as the rulers of our own destinies, with the power to shape our lives according to our ambitions and aspirations. He emphasizes that true progress lies not in external accomplishments or societal expectations but in our journey of self-discovery and constant evolution.To delve deeper into the meaning of this quote, let us explore an unexpected philosophical concept - the Dichotomy of Control. This ancient philosophy, primarily attributed to the Stoics, examines the distinction between things within our control and those outside it. The Dichotomy of Control poses a fundamental question: should our ambitions and pursuit of progress be focused solely on mastering elements within our control or should we also consider external factors beyond our influence?Oscar Wilde's quote aligns with the Stoic belief that our primary focus should be on ruling ourselves, rather than attempting to manipulate external circumstances. It suggests that true progress and personal fulfillment come from focusing our efforts on internal growth and development. This interpretation resonates with the Stoic notion that our thoughts, emotions, and actions are elements entirely within our control. By mastering ourselves, we can create our own "kingdom" of wisdom, purpose, and self-mastery.However, the Dichotomy of Control invites us to consider a nuanced perspective. While ruling ourselves is essential, it does not mean completely detaching from or disregarding external events. The Stoics acknowledged the influence of external circumstances on our lives but advocated for developing resilience and equanimity in the face of them. Thus, a philosophy that combines Wilde's emphasis on self-rule with the Stoic approach provides a balanced framework for personal growth and progress.To illustrate this concept, let's imagine an aspiring artist named Sophia. Sophia ambitiously seeks to become a renowned painter, fully embracing Wilde's call to "know more, and be more, and to do more." In her pursuit of mastery, Sophia dedicates countless hours to honing her craft, experimenting with different techniques, and constantly acquiring new knowledge about art history and theory. She understands that by expanding her understanding of the medium, she can push the boundaries of her own abilities.At the same time, Sophia also recognizes the importance of accepting external factors that may impact her career. She acknowledges that success as an artist requires not only skill but also external validation, market demand, and a bit of luck. By accepting this reality, Sophia can focus on what she can control - her artistic expression, work ethic, and continuous learning. With this perspective, she navigates the inevitable ups and downs of the art world with resilience and a growth mindset.In essence, Wilde's quote, when intertwined with the Dichotomy of Control, offers a valuable perspective on personal ambition and progress. It highlights the significance of ruling ourselves, fostering self-growth, and pursuing our passions. Simultaneously, it acknowledges the role of external circumstances while encouraging us to focus on what lies within our control. By finding a balance between internal mastery and external acceptance, individuals like Sophia can embrace their ambitions fully while embracing the realities of the world around them.In conclusion, Wilde's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-rule and personal growth. It reminds us that true progress stems from within - from our constant pursuit of knowledge, self-improvement, and self-mastery. However, the Dichotomy of Control provides an alternative perspective, reminding us to also acknowledge the influence of external factors and navigate them with resilience. By combining these concepts, we can chart a path to success that is rooted in self-discovery, continuous improvement, and a harmonious understanding of the world we inhabit.