If you wish to be good, first believe that you are bad.
📖 Epictetus
The quote from Epictetus's "Handbook" emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and acknowledgment of one's flaws for personal growth. Recognizing that one may possess bad traits is a crucial first step toward making meaningful improvements in character. Instead of having an overly positive or unrealistic view of oneself, confronting the truth about one's shortcomings allows for genuine development and change.
This perspective suggests that self-reflection and honesty are necessary for becoming a better person. By believing that one has the capacity for wrong or bad behavior, it sets the foundation for striving towards goodness and virtue. Ultimately, it encourages individuals to embark on a journey of self-improvement by facing their internal struggles head-on.
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