By subscribing to Inspiring Quotes you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
The Greek Stoic philosopher Epictetus was born into slavery around 50 CE. He gained his freedom while still a young man, and began teaching in Rome, until the Roman emperor Domitian expelled all philosophers from the city. Undeterred, Epictetus founded a school of philosophy in Greece, where his teachings became widely admired. He lived a frugal life with very few belongings, and his primary concerns were integrity, self-management, and personal freedom. Epictetus believed external possessions — including glory and power — are beyond our control, and we only have power over those things within us, such as our opinions, impulses, and desires. As he said, “The good that ought to be the object of our earnest pursuit, is to be found only within ourselves.”
The Funniest Literary One-Liners
Leonardo da Vinci’s Advice for a Fulfilling Life
16 Helpful Quotes To Read When Your Relationship Is Struggling
Quotes From Award-Winning Books of the 21st Century
14 Reminders That You’re Loved, for Anyone Who Feels Lonely
15 Quotes To Remind You To Stop and Smell the Flowers
Quotes for Anyone Who Struggles With Patience
12 Quotes To Help Improve Your Emotional Intelligence
15 Life-Changing Quotes From Marcus Aurelius’ ‘Meditations’
9 Evidence-Based Principles for Living a Longer Life, With Quotes
10 Moody Quotes From Film Noir