In Epictetus' "The Art of Living":

Consider what comes First, then what follows, and then Act

By: Irving Vierma

At the foundation of Stoic philosophy, the teachings of Epictetus shine like beacons, illuminating paths of wisdom toward a serene and authentic life. In his classic manual "The Art of Living," Epictetus gives us a comprehensive guide to navigating the tumultuous vicissitudes of human existence. Among the many sections of wisdom contained in this work, one of the most resplendent is the instruction to "Consider the first, the next, and then act."

Photo by: Eren Yildiz https://unsplash.com/@erenyldz98

First Things First: Conscious Deliberation

Epictetus urges us to begin our journey to action with a reflective pause. Before we jump into the maelstrom of activity, we must take a moment to consider what really matters in our lives. This implies an exercise in self-knowledge and prioritization. What are our deepest values? What are our ultimate goals? By identifying and foregrounding these fundamental truths, we establish a solid foundation on which to build our future actions.

What follows: Contemplating the Consequences

Once we've identified what's truly important, the next step is to consider the potential ramifications of our actions. The philosopher encourages us to look beyond the present moment and visualize how our choices may reverberate in the future. How will our actions affect ourselves and others? Are we acting in harmony with our long-term values and goals? By carefully weighing the consequences of our actions, we can make more informed decisions aligned with our holistic well-being.

Take Action: Will in Action

With a clear understanding of what is truly important and the possible implications of our actions, it is time for action. Epictetus reminds us that action is the bridge between our aspirations and reality. However, this action should not be impulsive or hasty. Rather, it must be deliberate and conscious, in alignment with our deepest values and the goals we have set for ourselves. By acting in this way, we get closer to the realization of a full and meaningful life.

Living with Intention

The teaching in this section offers us a valuable reminder of the importance of living with intention and deliberation. In a world full of distractions and constant demands, it's easy to lose sight of what really matters and get swept up in the flow of immediacy. However, by cultivating the practice of mindful reflection and consideration of consequences, we can take the helm of our lives and sail into more serene and meaningful waters. Ultimately, "The Art of Living" invites us to embrace the timeless wisdom of Epictetus and commit to a life of authenticity, purpose, and fulfillment.

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