If you are pained by external things, it is not they that…
“If you are pained by external things, it is not they that disturb you, but your own judgement of them. And it is in your power to wipe out that judgement now.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Distress arises from our judgments, not external events; we can choose to change those judgments.
In simple terms: Suffering comes from how we think, not what happens.
Key Takeaway
Practice reframing thoughts to reduce suffering.
Themes
philosophy
psychology
mindfulness
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
philosophical
self‑help
When to use this quote
- stressful work
- relationship conflict
- health challenges
- financial loss
- daily irritations
Key Concepts
Stoicism
cognitive appraisal
personal agency
Questions to Reflect On
- What judgments cause you most pain?
- How can you reframe a recent upset?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep-seated beliefs can be difficult.