We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how we respond to them. - Epictetus

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Engraved portrait of Epictetus, facing left

We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how we respond to them.

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About Epictetus

Epictetus (c. 55 – c. 135 AD), born a slave, was a Greek Stoic philosopher. His words were recorded by his student Arrian in the Discourses and Enchiridion written in the early 2nd-century.

Biography information from Wikiquote · Portrait adapted from Wikimedia Commons, Theodoor Galle (Public domain / CC0)

Also Known As

Native Name: ΕΠΙΚΤΗΤΟΣ
Alternative Names: Epictetus of Hierapolis • Epiktetos
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Additional quotes by Epictetus

To the rational animal only is the irrational intolerable; but that which is rational is tolerable.

From Epictetus's discourse on how a man may maintain his proper character on every occasion (Discourses I.2), recorded by his student Arrian.

The Discourses of Epictetus; with the Encheiridion and Fragments Verified in 1 source Sign up to see the complete provenance
View original (Ancient Greek)
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