Epictetus: 'There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.'

There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.

In the fast-paced and often chaotic world we live in, happiness can feel elusive. We often find ourselves worrying about countless aspects of our lives, ranging from our careers and relationships to global events that are beyond our control. However, the ancient Greek philosopher Epictetus offers us a profound insight into finding true happiness in his timeless quote: 'There is only one way to happiness, and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.'At its core, this quote reminds us that happiness is not derived from external circumstances or outcomes but rather from the way we choose to perceive and respond to them. It emphasizes the importance of focusing our energy and attention on the things that are truly within our control – our thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes. By releasing our attachment to the uncontrollable aspects of life, we can free ourselves from the burden of worry and find a sense of peace and contentment.Epictetus' quote speaks to the power of our agency and the extent to which we have influence over our own lives. It directs us to shift our focus from external factors to internal ones, recognizing that our judgments, choices, and actions are the primary determinants of our happiness. While we may not have control over external events and circumstances, we possess the power to shape our inner world and cultivate a sense of tranquility regardless of what unfolds around us.However, this notion of relinquishing concern over what lies beyond our control may initially seem challenging or counterintuitive. After all, we are wired to worry about the future, to anticipate obstacles, and to seek some semblance of certainty. This is where the introduction of the philosophical concept of Stoicism can add an unexpected and intriguing layer to our exploration.Stoicism, a school of thought that originated in ancient Greece, encourages individuals to practice acceptance and cultivate inner resilience in the face of external circumstances. It teaches that by focusing on what is within our power, we can find peace and live in accordance with nature. While the concept may sound somewhat stoic (hence the name), it is not synonymous with repressing emotions or adopting a detached demeanor. Instead, it presents an opportunity for self-mastery and the development of a profound sense of well-being.The contrast between society's prevailing emphasis on control and Stoic teachings highlights the age-old struggle between our desire for certainty and our need for inner harmony. Society often encourages us to believe that happiness lies in bending the world to our will, in attaining more wealth, status, and control. However, Epictetus challenges this conventional wisdom by asserting that true happiness can only be found by letting go of the worry attached to those external factors. In doing so, he directs us to a path where our happiness and fulfillment depend not on changing the uncontrollable, but on changing ourselves.In essence, Epictetus' quote calls upon us to develop a sense of discernment – to recognize what lies within our control and what lies beyond it. This discernment is not about apathy or indifference but rather about channeling our energy toward what truly matters. By shifting our attention to the things we can influence and actively working on our own thoughts and behaviors, we can create a lasting foundation for happiness.As we navigate the complexities of life, it is easy to get entangled in worries and anxieties about things beyond our sphere of influence. Epictetus reminds us to choose a different path – a path that leads to true happiness and inner peace. By embracing the wisdom of his quote, we can learn to let go of the unnecessary burdens we place upon ourselves and cultivate a resilient mindset that empowers us to navigate life's challenges with grace and serenity. So, let us cease worrying about what is beyond our control and embark upon a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.