In today’s fast-paced world, finding purpose and productivity in our work can often seem like an elusive goal. The constant influx of information, the ever-present demands of our careers, and the myriad responsibilities we juggle daily can easily leave us feeling overwhelmed and directionless.
Yet, it is precisely in these moments of chaos that the wisdom of Stoic philosophy shines the brightest.
This ancient philosophy, practiced by the likes of Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, provides timeless guidance on how to approach our tasks with clarity, focus, and a sense of duty.
Whether you’re striving to excel in your career, seeking to manage your time more effectively, or looking to find deeper meaning in your daily efforts, Stoicism offers a reservoir of practical wisdom.
In this article, we will explore some of the best Stoic quotes on work and delve into the lessons they impart.
Let’s dive in and uncover the enduring truths that can transform the way we approach our professional lives.
Marcus Aurelius Quotes Related To Work
“Just that you do the right thing. The rest doesn’t matter.”
“Don’t go on discussing what a good person should be. Just be one.”
“At dawn, when you have trouble getting out of bed, tell yourself: “I have to go to work — as a human being. What do I have to complain of, if I’m going to do what I was born for — the things I was brought into the world to do? Or is this what I was created for? To huddle under the blankets and stay warm?.”
“Concentrate every minute like a Roman— like a man— on doing what’s in front of you with precise and genuine seriousness, tenderly, willingly, with justice. And on freeing yourself from all other distractions. Yes, you can— if you do everything as if it were the last thing you were doing in your life, and stop being aimless, stop letting your emotions override what your mind tells you, stop being hypocritical, self-centered , irritable.”
“Stop allowing your mind to be a slave, to be jerked about by selfish impulses, to kick against fate and the present, and to mistrust the future.”
“Do what you will. Even if you tear yourself apart, most people will continue doing the same things.”
“Ambition means tying your well-being to what other people say or do. Self-indulgence means tying it to the things that happen to you. Sanity means tying it to your own actions.”
“To love only what happens, what was destined. No greater harmony.”
“What is not good for the hive is no good for the bee”
Epictetus Quotes Related To Work
“No great thing is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.”
“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.”
“Don’t explain your philosophy. Embody it.”
“The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best.”
“Never depend on the admiration of others. There is no strength in it. Personal merit cannot be derived from an external source. It is not to be found in your personal associations, nor can it be found in the regard of other people. It is a fact of life that other people, even people who love you, will not necessarily agree with your ideas, understand you, or share your enthusiasms. Grow up! Who cares what other people think about you!”
“Other people’s views and troubles can be contagious. Don’t sabotage yourself by unwittingly adopting negative, unproductive attitudes through your associations with others.”
“If you want to improve, be content to be thought foolish and stupid.”
“Attach yourself to what is spiritually superior, regardless of what other people think or do. Hold to your true aspirations no matter what is going on around you.”
“No man is free who is not master of himself.”
“Small-minded people blame others. Average people blame themselves. The wise see all blame as foolishness.”
“Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.”
Seneca Quotes Related To Work
“If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.”
“Associate with people who are likely to improve you.”
“Begin at once to live, and count each separate day as a separate life.”
“Work nourishes noble natures.”
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
“It is a great thing to know the season for speech and the season for silence”
“It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.”
“No man was ever wise by chance”
“It is a rough road that leads to the heights of greatness.”
“Fidelity purchased with money, money can destroy.”
“While we wait for life, life passes.”
7 Key Takeaways
1. Focus on Actions, Not Words
Marcus Aurelius reminds us, “Don’t go on discussing what a good person should be. Just be one.” Similarly, Epictetus advises, “Don’t explain your philosophy. Embody it.”
The emphasis here is on action over discussion. In the modern world, this translates to demonstrating your values and work ethic through your deeds rather than just talking about them.
For example, if you value punctuality, make it a point to always be on time rather than simply stating that you prioritize it.
2. Embrace Your Purpose
“At dawn, when you have trouble getting out of bed, tell yourself: ‘I have to go to work — as a human being…’” Marcus Aurelius urges us to embrace our purpose and duties.
This mindset can help modern professionals find motivation and fulfillment in their daily tasks. Whether you are a teacher, engineer, or artist, recognizing the importance of your role and the impact you have can drive you to perform better and find joy in your work.
3. Surround Yourself with Uplifting People
Epictetus states, “The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best.”
In today’s world, this could mean choosing colleagues and friends who support and inspire you, avoiding those who drain your energy or bring negativity into your life. Positive environments foster productivity and personal growth.
4. Master Your Mind
“Stop allowing your mind to be a slave, to be jerked about by selfish impulses…” Marcus Aurelius’s advice is about gaining control over your thoughts and emotions.
In the context of the modern workplace, this might mean staying focused amidst distractions and managing stress effectively. Techniques like mindfulness and meditation can help maintain this mental discipline.
5. Embrace the Process and Patience
Epictetus reminds us, “No great thing is created suddenly… Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.” This teaches the value of patience and persistence.
In a world where instant gratification is common, understanding that meaningful achievements take time can help maintain motivation and perseverance, whether you’re building a career, learning a new skill, or working on a long-term project.
6. Value Internal Over External Approval
“Never depend on the admiration of others. There is no strength in it.” Epictetus emphasizes the importance of internal validation over seeking approval from others.
In the modern era of social media, where external validation is rampant, this teaching is crucial. Focus on your personal growth and values rather than getting caught up in the need for external affirmation.
7. Know Your Goals
Seneca’s wisdom, “If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable,” underscores the importance of having clear goals and preparation.
In contemporary terms, this could mean setting clear career objectives and continually improving your skills to navigate the uncertainties of the job market. Having a plan and adapting to changes can make any situation more manageable.
Join the Conversation
What did you think of these Stoic quotes on work? We’d love to hear your thoughts and see your favorite quotes! Drop a comment below with your insights or any quotes that resonate with you.
If you enjoyed this and want more Stoic wisdom delivered straight to your inbox, why not join our Stoic email newsletter? By subscribing, you’ll get regular insights, practical tips, and curated content to help you live a more fulfilling and virtuous life.
As always, stay Stoic!
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
