Epictetus: 'First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.'

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.

In the famous quote by Epictetus, "First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do," we are presented with a simple yet profound principle for leading a purposeful life. This quote encapsulates the essence of self-reflection and deliberate action. It urges us to clarify our intentions and aspirations, and then take the necessary steps to manifest them in reality.At first glance, Epictetus's quote emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals and intentions. It challenges us to be self-aware and become conscious of our desires, dreams, and visions for ourselves. By first saying to ourselves what we would be, we are essentially taking a moment to contemplate and define our true desires, free from external influences or societal pressures. This step is crucial, as it grounds our actions in our authentic selves, setting the foundation for a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.However, let us delve deeper into this quote and explore an unexpected philosophical concept that adds depth and interest to the discussion: the theory of determinism. Determinism proposes that all events, including human actions, are causally determined by preceding events, such as genetics, environment, upbringing, and external circumstances. According to this theory, our choices and actions are merely a result of these determinants, leaving little room for free will.The juxtaposition of Epictetus's quote with the concept of determinism presents an intriguing contrast. While Epictetus highlights the significance of personal agency and taking deliberate action, determinism challenges the notion that we have full control over our choices. It poses the question: Can we truly do what we have to do if our actions are predetermined?To reconcile these seemingly contradictory ideas, we must explore the concept of mental resilience and adaptability. While determinism may suggest that our actions are predetermined, it doesn't negate the power of self-awareness and conscious decision-making. The circumstances we encounter may be beyond our control, but our response to those circumstances remains within our sphere of influence. This is where Epictetus's wisdom becomes invaluable.Epictetus's quote encourages us to focus on the aspect we do have control over, which is how we perceive and react to our circumstances. This perspective empowers us to shape our lives and make the most of the predetermined events that unfold around us. By aligning our thoughts, intentions, and desires with our actions, we can adapt and respond with purpose and resilience. In doing so, we navigate our predetermined path, but with a conscious mindset that allows us to make the most of the journey.Moreover, when we first clarify our intentions, we create a mental image and a guiding compass for ourselves. This image serves as a constant reminder of what we want to become, and it influences our choices and actions. By reaffirming our desired state repeatedly, we condition our minds to seek opportunities and act in ways that align with our aspirations. This conscious effort fosters growth, reinforces our beliefs, and gradually molds us into the person we strive to be.In conclusion, Epictetus's quote holds profound wisdom that transcends time and resonates with individuals from all walks of life. It advocates for self-reflection, alignment of thoughts and actions, and intentional living. While determinism raises thought-provoking questions about the extent of our free will, the underlying message of Epictetus's quote empowers us to focus on what we can control – our response and adaptation to life's predetermined circumstances. By adhering to this philosophy, we can shape our destiny, amplify our personal agency, and ultimately lead a more purposeful and fulfilling existence.