The Stoic philosopher Epictetus (c. 50–135 CE) was born a slave and later became one of the most influential teachers of ancient philosophy. His central message was simple but powerful: while we can’t control external events, we can control our own minds, choices, and responses. By focusing on what is within our power, we cultivate freedom, resilience, and peace.

Below are some key ideas from Epictetus—paired with practical examples for daily life.

1. Focus on What You Can Control

Key Idea:

“Some things are in our control and others not.” (Enchiridion, 1)

Epictetus begins his handbook by drawing a sharp line: external events, other people’s actions, and outcomes are not up to us. Our judgments, values, and actions, however, are within our control.

Everyday Example:

You’re stuck in traffic and running late. Getting angry doesn’t move the cars. Instead, you can use the time to practice patience, listen to a podcast, or breathe deeply. You can’t control the traffic, but you can control how you experience it.

2. Reframe Difficulties as Training

Key Idea:

Difficulties are not curses, but opportunities to practice virtue—like a wrestler needs opponents to grow strong.

Everyday Example:

A coworker criticizes your work. Instead of reacting defensively, treat it as an opportunity to practice humility and self-control. Ask yourself: How can I use this to improve? Challenges become your training ground for resilience.

3. Freedom Lies in Your Attitude

Key Idea:

“It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.”

Epictetus reminds us that our interpretations shape our emotional life. If we label an event as catastrophic, we suffer; if we see it as manageable, we remain free.

Everyday Example:

Your vacation gets canceled due to bad weather. You could stew in disappointment, or you could treat it as a chance to rest at home, spend time with family, or explore something new nearby. The event doesn’t dictate your happiness—your perspective does.

4. Detach from What Isn’t Yours

Key Idea:

Don’t tie your well-being to possessions, status, or other people’s approval. These are outside your control and can vanish at any moment.

Everyday Example:

You post something on social media, but it doesn’t get many likes. If your sense of worth depends on others’ validation, you’ll be at their mercy. Instead, Epictetus would suggest: ask yourself, Was this true to my values? That’s what matters.

5. Live in Accord with Nature and Reason

Key Idea:

For Stoics, living well means acting with virtue (wisdom, justice, courage, self-control) and aligning your choices with reason and reality.

Everyday Example:

A friend confides in you. You’re tempted to gossip about it later, but you pause. Justice and integrity guide you to keep their confidence. By choosing virtue over impulse, you act in harmony with your better nature.

Closing Thought

Epictetus taught that happiness is not found in riches, fame, or external success. It comes from mastering ourselves. By focusing on what is ours to control—our thoughts, choices, and actions—we discover a deep kind of freedom no one can take away.

As he put it: “No man is free who is not master of himself.”

Dr. Thomas Lindquist, Psy.D.

Licensed Psychologist

Contact: t.lindquist.psyd@gmail.com