Skip to content

Action Quote by Epictetus

“Some things are in our control and others not. Things in our control are opinion, pursuit, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever are our own actions. Things not in our control are body, property, reputation, command, and, in one word, whatever are not our own actions.” quote by Epictetus
Download Open image
“Some things are in our control and others not. Things in our control are opinion, pursuit, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever are our own actions. Things not in our control are body, property, reputation, command, and, in one word, whatever are not our own actions.”

Epictetus

About This Quote

Control lies in internal attitudes and actions; external circumstances like health or reputation are beyond our direct influence.

In simple terms: Focus on what you can control.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate inner discipline and accept external events.

Themes

philosophy self‑control stoicism mindset

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • stress management
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

agency determinism ethical behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • What aspects of your life are truly within your control?
  • How do you respond when external events disrupt plans?
A Different Perspective

External factors can still affect outcomes despite internal control.

5.0 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Epictetus

Explore all 577 Epictetus quotes

More Action quotes

Browse all 14,942 Action quotes