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.

In this article, we will dive deep into the quote by Epictetus: "Segðu fyrst sjálfum þér hvað þú vilt verða og gerðu síðan það sem gera þarf." Translated as "First say to yourself what you want to be, and then do what is necessary," this quote holds a straightforward yet profound meaning for personal growth and achieving our desired goals.At its core, this quote emphasizes the power of intention and action. It points out the importance of introspection and self-reflection as the starting point for any meaningful endeavor. Before embarking on a journey toward our goals, it is crucial to first identify what we truly want to become or achieve.Epictetus encourages us to take the time to sincerely ask ourselves what we want and define our aspirations. Whether it's a personal goal such as becoming more compassionate or a professional ambition like starting a business, a clear vision acts as the guiding light for our actions.However, as simple as it sounds, merely stating our desires is not enough. Epictetus highlights the necessity of action – the practical steps we must take to turn our aspirations into reality. Without action, our dreams and ambitions remain stagnant and unfulfilled.Here is where an unexpected philosophical concept is introduced - the notion of "Amor Fati" or the love of fate. Stoicism, a school of philosophy to which Epictetus belonged, teaches the acceptance of life's circumstances and finding contentment within them. It pushes us to embrace both the good and the bad, recognizing that everything that happens is part of the grand tapestry of life.While at first glance this concept may seem contradictory to the idea of taking action to shape our destiny, they can coexist harmoniously. By accepting all aspects of life and our circumstances, we gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the present moment. It allows us to navigate the challenges with resilience while taking necessary steps towards our desired outcomes.The contrast lies in recognizing that even though we may not have direct control over external events, we possess the power to choose our responses and actions. Epictetus teaches that while we cannot control the winds, we can adjust our sails. The combination of stating our desires and taking aligned action empowers us to mold our destiny within the constraints of life's unpredictability.Think of it this way: a ship captain sets sail with a clear destination in mind, but must also adapt to unforeseen weather conditions. While the path may change, the intention and determination to reach the desired port remain constant.In our daily lives, this quote encourages us to be proactive and intentional in shaping our future. It calls us to self-reflect on our aspirations, visualize them, and then take the necessary steps towards them. From setting goals and creating action plans to building healthy habits and seeking new opportunities, every action becomes purposeful when aligned with our desired outcomes.Epictetus reminds us that our lives are not simply handed to us; they are a product of the choices we make and the actions we take. By embodying the meaning behind this quote, we unlock our potential for personal growth, resilience, and the fulfillment of our aspirations.In conclusion, Epictetus' quote serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of our dreams begins with clarity of intention and is driven by intentional action. While we cannot control every external circumstance, through self-reflection and proactive steps, we can navigate the twists and turns of life towards the destination we desire. By combining this wisdom with the concept of "Amor Fati," we find a balanced approach to shaping our destiny while embracing the beauty of life's unpredictability. So, let us dare to dream, declare our aspirations, and take action. The power to become who we want to be lies within each of us.