Mark The Conditions And Consequences
Mark The Conditions And Consequences
December 21st
“So you wish to conquer in the Olympic Games, my friend? And I, too... But first mark the conditions and the consequences. You will have to put yourself under discipline; to eat by rule, to avoid cakes and sweetmeats; to take exercise at the appointed hour whether you like it or not, in cold and heat; to abstain from cold drinks and wine at your will. Then, in the conflict itself you are likely enough to dislocate your wrist or twist your ankle, to swallow a great deal of dust, to be severely thrashed, and after all of these things, to be defeated.”
—Epictetus
Enchiridion
Like an athlete dreams of a winner’s laurel, you may long for success in your job, harmonious relationships, or perhaps a healthier lifestyle.
Epictetus presents us with a sobering reminder—success is not merely about the glory of the finish line. It’s entwined with sacrifices, discipline, and the very real possibility of setbacks.
Have you considered what you must endure and give up to achieve your own ‘Olympic victory’? The sweets of life may need to be forsaken for the less immediately gratifying sustenance of hard work and self-control.
Epictetus isn't suggesting that pursuing goals is futile, rather he's urging us to face reality with open eyes.
Each day, are you ready to step into your personal arena, come rain or scorching heat, to grind through the routines that edge you closer to your goals? It might mean waking up earlier to exercise, spending nights learning a new skill, or even enduring the social 'dust' and 'dislocations' of networking and rejection.
Embrace the discomfort, for it's a part of the process that shapes champions. And remember, in the end, despite doing everything right, you could still be bested. Can you make peace with that, stand back up, and value the journey just as much as the destination?
As you ponder your current ambitions, ask yourself, are you truly prepared for what the quest entails, not just the dazzle of victory but the grit of the battle?
