From Sharon Lebell’s interpretations of Epictetus in Art of Living: The Classical Manual on Virtue, Happiness, and Effectiveness (2007,)
Now is the time to get serious about living your ideals. How long can you afford to put off who you really want to be? Your nobler self cannot wait any longer.
Put your principles into practice—now. Stop the excuses and the procrastination. This is your life! You aren’t a child anymore. The sooner you set yourself to your spiritual program, the happier you will be. The longer you wait, the more you’ll be vulnerable to mediocrity and feel filled with shame and regret, because you know you are capable of better.
From this instant on, vow to stop disappointing yourself. Separate yourself from the mob. Decide to be extraordinary and do what you need to do—now.
If you’re like most people who want more from life than what they’re getting, remember that cutting through the stupor of life often starts with gaining clarity.
What do you value? What matters most?
Does your life align with your proclaimed values and priorities? If not, now’s the perfect time to lean into small actions that could set you on the right path.
Progress is within reach, but you’ll need to find clarity and restructure how you think about goals.
Stop procrastinating now. Recognize that you can be better. Without hesitation, decide to be the person that only you can be.
Idea for Impact: What’s one brave decision you can make now to get unstuck and move in the direction of your goals?