How an Epictetus Quote Helped One Man Overcome 10 Years of Pain and Suffering

Core Concepts

It is not external events that disturb people, but rather the judgments and perceptions they form about those events.

Abstract

The author shares how a profound quote from the Stoic philosopher Epictetus helped him overcome a major life crisis. The author was 33 years old when a "meteorite had just hit [his] life, reducing it to ashes." He struggled for 3 months to fully grasp the meaning of Epictetus' quote: "It is not things that disturb people, but the judgments they form about them."
The author explains that Epictetus' teachings are often dismissed as "common sense" that people ignore, believing "life is not that simple." However, the author argues that life is actually easier than it seems, and that we often complicate it through our own negative perceptions and judgments.
Applying Epictetus' insight, the author was able to overcome 10 years of pain and suffering. The key realization was that it was not the external events themselves that were causing his distress, but rather the judgments and interpretations he had formed about those events. By shifting his mindset and perspective, he was able to find relief and move forward.

Stats

It took me 3 months to grasp this Epictetus quote.
The author was 33 years old when a "meteorite had just hit [his] life, reducing it to ashes."
The author overcame 10 years of pain and suffering by applying this Epictetus quote.

Quotes

"It is not things that disturb people, but the judgments they form about them." — Epictetus

Key Insights Distilled From

It Took Me 3 Months To Grasp This Epictetus Quote, But It Saved Me From 10 Years Of Pain And…

by Albe... at medium.com 07-30-2024

https://medium.com/the-philosophical-inn/it-took-me-3-months-to-grasp-this-epictetus-quote-but-it-saved-me-from-10-years-of-pain-and-c0d3f5c072a3

Deeper Inquiries

How can one cultivate the habit of forming more constructive judgments about life's challenges and adversities?

To cultivate the habit of forming more constructive judgments about life's challenges and adversities, one can start by practicing mindfulness and self-awareness. By being present in the moment and observing their thoughts without immediate reaction, individuals can begin to recognize when negative judgments arise. Additionally, practicing gratitude and reframing negative situations into learning opportunities can help shift perspectives towards a more constructive outlook. Engaging in regular reflection and journaling can also aid in identifying patterns of negative judgment and replacing them with more positive and rational interpretations of events.

What are some potential limitations or drawbacks to the Stoic philosophy of focusing solely on one's own perceptions and judgments?

While the Stoic philosophy of focusing on one's own perceptions and judgments can be empowering and liberating, it may also have limitations. One potential drawback is the risk of becoming overly self-reliant and detached from the emotions and experiences of others. This could lead to a lack of empathy and understanding in interpersonal relationships, as well as a tendency to dismiss the valid perspectives of others. Additionally, solely focusing on internal perceptions may overlook systemic injustices and external factors that contribute to challenges and adversities faced by individuals. It is essential to strike a balance between self-reflection and consideration of external influences to maintain a holistic worldview.

In what other areas of life, beyond personal crises, could Epictetus' teachings on perception and judgment be usefully applied?

Epictetus' teachings on perception and judgment can be applied in various areas of life beyond personal crises. In the workplace, individuals can benefit from practicing Stoic principles to navigate office politics, handle criticism constructively, and maintain a resilient mindset in the face of challenges. In relationships, understanding that it is not external events but our interpretations of them that affect our emotions can lead to healthier communication and conflict resolution. Furthermore, in decision-making processes, applying Epictetus' teachings can help individuals make more rational and less emotionally-driven choices, leading to better outcomes in both personal and professional spheres.