What We Control and What We Don't
Recognizing the boundaries of our personal power gives us real clarity about the world, turning external anxiety into inner strength and calm.
"Some things are in our control, while others are not. We control our opinion, choice, desire, aversion, and, in a word, everything of our own doing. We don't control our body, property, reputation, position, and, in a word, everything not of our own doing. Even more, the things in our control are by nature free, unhindered, and unobstructed, while those not in our control are weak, slavish, can be hindered, and are not our own." Epictetus, Enchiridion, 1.1–2
Today, you will encounter external events that you simply cannot control. That truth might feel a bit scary at first. However, this reality becomes beautifully balanced when we realize that we completely control our opinions about those very same events. You retain the final say on whether an external situation is handled as good or bad, and whether a development is fair or unfair. You do not control the circumstance, but you always control what you think about it.
Take a moment to look closely at how this dynamic works in your day-to-day routine. Absolutely every single item that exists outside of your direct circle of influence—including the surrounding world, other people, luck, karma, or whatever else—presents a corresponding area that resides entirely within your control. This internal domain alone grants us plenty of power to manage our lives. It offers plenty of power to build momentum and maintain our focus.
Best of all, an honest understanding of what sits within our control provides genuine clarity about the world around us. All we truly have is our own mind. When we fully internalize this fact, it becomes much better and more appropriately directed inward. Remember that today, whenever you find yourself trying to extend your reach outward into things you cannot change.
Common Questions
What things are explicitly within our control according to Epictetus?
We exercise complete control over our opinion, choice, desire, aversion, and everything that is inherently of our own doing.
What external elements fall completely outside our control?
We do not control our physical body, property, reputation, position, or anything else that is not of our own doing.
Why is it beneficial to understand that we only own our minds?
It provides real clarity and prevents us from wasting energy on outside dynamics. It ensures our effort is appropriately directed inward, building strength and calm.
Your Key Takeaway: When we control our mind, we gain strength and calm. Stop trying to control the situation, because you can't. Instead, decide how you will think about it, and let that internal power be your anchor.