When You Just Can't Stop
“People who love what they do wear themselves down doing it. They even forget to wash or eat. Do you have less respect for your own nature than the engraver does for engraving, the dancer for dance, the miser for money or the social climber for status? When they’re really possessed by what they do, they’d rather stop eating and sleeping than give up practicing their arts.”
—Marcus Aurelius
Meditations
Whether it’s an engraver meticulously chipping away at metal, a dancer surrendering to the rhythm, or someone tirelessly chasing wealth or status, their devotion is so deep that basic needs like food and sleep become secondary. It's a powerful example of commitment.
Now, take a moment to reflect on your own life. Are you giving the things you care about the same level of respect? Do you allow distractions or excuses to pull you away from your own 'art,' whatever it may be?
Applying this to your daily life doesn't mean neglecting self-care in pursuit of your goals. Instead, it's about finding that thing that ignites such a fire within you that every other concern dims in comparison.
Are you as dedicated to your personal and professional growth as the miser is to their fortune? It’s easy to say you value something, but do your actions prove it?
The next time you find yourself putting off your passions for something less important, think of the engraver, dancer, or miser.
Let their focus inspire you to realign your priorities so that you, too, can wear yourself down with love for what you do.