Computation Quote by Epictetus
“When the idea of any pleasure strikes your imagination, make a just computation between the duration of the pleasure and that of the repentance that is likely to follow it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Discourses, Epictetus, 1st century AD
Weigh short‑term pleasure against long‑term regret before acting.
In simple terms: Consider future regret before enjoying.
Key Takeaway
Pause and calculate consequences.
Themes
self‑control
ethics
decision‑making
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- choosing indulgence
- financial spending
- relationships
- health habits
Key Concepts
Stoicism
temporal trade‑offs
Questions to Reflect On
- What future regret might this pleasure cause?
- How can you measure long‑term impact?
A Different Perspective
Pleasure can be fleeting, regret may be lasting.
