Reboot the Real Work
Stop using the fear of failure as an excuse for halfhearted effort and commit to the work of becoming better.
"I am your teacher and you are learning in my school. My aim is to bring you to completion, unhindered, free from compulsive behavior, unrestrained, without shame, free, flourishing, and happy... your aim is to learn and diligently practice all these things." Epictetus, Discourses, 2.19.29-34
Many of us remember being young and choosing to fool around rather than exert ourselves because we feared we might fail at the task. This halfhearted and lazy effort provides a ready made excuse to say that it does not matter because we were not even trying. As we get older, however, the stakes are no longer just about grades or sports trophies.
What is at stake now is the quality of your life and your ability to deal with the world around you. Epictetus reminds us that the work of philosophy is quite feasible and is the only thing truly in our power. We must let go of the past and simply begin the process of learning to be flourishing and happy.
Do not let the fear of failure intimidate you anymore. You have the wisest philosophers who ever lived as your teachers, and they are asking for something very simple: just begin the work. Once you start, the rest of the progress follows.
Common Questions
Why do people often put in halfhearted effort?
Many people exert lazy effort as a defense mechanism because they are afraid of trying their best and still failing.
What is the goal of the Stoic teacher?
The aim is to help the student become free from compulsive behavior, flourishing, and happy by focusing on what is in their power.
How do I start the "real work"?
The key is to let go of the past and simply begin the practice. The philosophers are ready to guide you if you take the first step.
Your Key Takeaway: Stop making excuses and commit fully to your personal growth. The quality of your life depends on your willingness to start the work of philosophy today.