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It is not things in themselves which trouble us, but our…

“It is not things in themselves which trouble us, but our opinions of things.” quote by Epictetus
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“It is not things in themselves which trouble us, but our opinions of things.”

Epictetus

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Our distress comes from our judgments, not from external events themselves.

In simple terms: Thoughts cause trouble, not things.

Key Takeaway

Examine and adjust your judgments.

Themes

philosophy control perception

Mood

calm inquisitive

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • stress management
  • conflict resolution
  • personal decision making
  • mental health

Key Concepts

stoicism cognitive psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What judgments cause you unnecessary suffering?
  • How can you reframe your view of a problem?
A Different Perspective

Changing ingrained opinions can be difficult.

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