Begin therefore with little things. A little oil is spilled, a little wine is stolen: say, “This is the price of tranquility; this is the price of no… - Epictetus

Never call yourself a philosopher, nor talk a great deal among the unlearned about theorems, but act conformably to them. Thus, at an entertainment, don’t talk how persons ought to eat, but eat as you ought.

Do your own useful work without regard to the honor or admiration your efforts might win from others. There is no such thing as vicarious merit.

What, for instance, does it mean to be insulted? [29] Stand by a rock and insult it, and what have you accomplished? If someone responds to insult like a rock, what has the abuser gained with his invective? If, however, he has his victim’s weakness to exploit, then his efforts are worth his while.