Aspiration Quote by Epictetus
“Within our control are our own opinions, aspirations, and desires and the demons that distract us from these goals. Outside of our control are such things as what kind of body we have, whether or not we are born into wealth, and how we are regarded by others.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Discourses, Epictetus, 2nd century AD
We can control our internal states and goals, but not external circumstances like wealth or appearance.
In simple terms: Control thoughts and desires, not external factors.
Key Takeaway
Focus on inner mastery.
Themes
self‑control
philosophy
stoicism
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- career planning
- relationship management
- financial decisions
Key Concepts
internal vs external
agency
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish what you can change from what you must accept?
- What habits help you stay centered amid external pressures?
A Different Perspective
External factors can still heavily influence outcomes despite inner control.
![“One of the great crimes of the Bloomberg/Klein administration [in New York City] is that they've removed themselves from communities, as if communities have nothing to say about what their needs and aspirations are for themselves and for their children.” quote by Bill Ayers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cfb/bill-ayers-1848_administration_one-of-the-great-crimes-of-the-bloomberg_36172.jpg)
