Epictetus – Discourses Pt. 4: On Progress | The Daily Stoic

Intro

In this episode of “The Daily Stoic” podcast, the host takes a deeper dive into ancient Stoic topics, focusing on Epictetus’ Discourses. This episode explores the concept of progress towards virtue and its relationship to happiness and a good flow of life.

Main Takeaways

Progress Towards Virtue

• Progress towards virtue involves progress towards happiness, impassivity, and a good flow of life.
• Virtue produces one thing, but progress towards it results in something different.
• Aim to be perfect in desire and avoidance, as well as in the practice of attention and withholding judgment.

Putting Teachings into Practice

• Progress is not about commenting on books, but about putting their teachings into practice.
• True progress is seen in those who cultivate and perfect their character, adhering to their ideals in every situation they face.

Value of Internals

• One should not value externals, which lie outside our power, as our proper concern.
• The knowledge that makes us impassive is faithful to and in accord with nature.

Gratitude and Happiness

• We should express gratitude to the gods for producing such wonderful fruit in the human mind as part of their plan to bestow on humanity the true secret of happiness.

Summary

Progress Towards Virtue

Epictetus teaches that progress towards virtue is not just about achieving a state of virtue, but also about the journey towards it. This journey involves making progress towards happiness, impassivity, and a good flow of life. To achieve this, one must strive to be perfect in desire and avoidance, as well as in the practice of attention and withholding judgment. It is through continuous effort and self-improvement that true progress is made.

Putting Teachings into Practice

Epictetus emphasizes that progress towards virtue is not merely an intellectual exercise of commenting on books or theories. True progress is seen in those who actively cultivate and perfect their character, living according to their ideals in every situation they face. It is through the practical application of Stoic teachings that one truly grows and develops as a virtuous individual.

Value of Internals

Epictetus reminds us not to place excessive value on externals, such as wealth, fame, or social status, as these lie outside our control. Instead, our focus should be on cultivating our internal virtues and character, which are within our power. By aligning ourselves with nature and developing inner strength, we can attain a state of impassivity and true fulfillment.

Gratitude and Happiness

Epictetus encourages us to express gratitude to the gods for the gift of reason and the ability to pursue virtue. He believes that the human mind is a wonderful fruit produced by the gods as part of their plan to bestow on humanity the true secret of happiness. By recognizing and appreciating this gift, we can find greater contentment and fulfillment in our lives.

Conclusion

Epictetus’ teachings on progress towards virtue offer valuable insights into the pursuit of happiness and a meaningful life. By focusing on inner growth, practical application of Stoic principles, and gratitude for the gifts of reason and virtue, we can embark on a path of true progress and fulfillment.