Epictetus: 'Segðu fyrst sjálfum þér hvað þú vilt verða og gerðu síðan það sem gera þarf.'

Segðu fyrst sjálfum þér hvað þú vilt verða og gerðu síðan það sem gera þarf.

Epictetus, a prominent Stoic philosopher, once said, "Segðu fyrst sjálfum þér hvað þú vilt verða og gerðu síðan það sem gera þarf," which loosely translates to "First, tell yourself what you want to become, and then do what is necessary." This quote encapsulates the essence of personal growth and self-determination. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and action in achieving our desired aspirations. Essentially, Epictetus urges individuals to define their goals and then actively pursue them through the necessary steps.This quote holds considerable significance in today's fast-paced and goal-oriented society. It highlights the dire need for introspection and reflection on our ambitions and dreams. All too often, we find ourselves drifting along in life, guided by external expectations or societal norms. We may lack a clear path or a sense of direction towards our desired future. Epictetus's quote reminds us that the first step towards attaining our aspirations is understanding what they truly are. Only by identifying our desires can we hope to create a roadmap towards their achievement.Furthermore, Epictetus points out that merely having a vision is not enough; we must also take action. Many individuals fall into the trap of endlessly planning, dreaming, and contemplating without ever taking the necessary steps towards their goals. They find comfort in imagining future success but often neglect the journey necessary to get there. Epictetus emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between desire and action, urging individuals to actively engage in the pursuit of their aspirations.While Epictetus's quote is straightforward and practical in its wisdom, let us explore an unexpected philosophical concept that can add depth and interest to our understanding. Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, delves into the meaning and purpose of human existence. It raises questions regarding individual freedom, responsibility, and the creation of one's own meaning in life.At first glance, Existentialism may seem at odds with Epictetus's perspective. After all, Existentialists argue that life lacks inherent meaning and that individuals are burdened with the task of creating their own purpose. However, upon closer examination, we can find common ground.Both Epictetus and Existentialists emphasize the crucial role of personal choice and agency in shaping our lives. While Existentialists may argue that the universe is devoid of inherent meaning, they recognize that individuals possess the freedom to ascribe meaning to their own lives. Epictetus's quote echoes this sentiment, highlighting the individual's power to define their aspirations and take the necessary steps to achieve them. In this sense, both philosophical perspectives converge in emphasizing the importance of self-determination and action.In conclusion, Epictetus's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of self-awareness and action in our pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment. By first clearly defining our aspirations and desires, we can establish a guiding light that directs our actions. Furthermore, the quote urges us to break free from the cycle of idle contemplation and encourages us to take the necessary steps towards our goals. While Existentialism may at first appear incongruent with Epictetus's perspective, both philosophical concepts share common ground in their belief in the power of personal agency, choice, and the creation of meaning in our lives. So, let Epictetus's words inspire us to introspect, define our ambitions, and actively work toward becoming who we aspire to be.