“He who suffers before it is necessary suffers more than is necessary.”
- Seneca The Younger, Roman Stoic philosopher
Thinking things through as part of a planning process is part o’ the deal. Makes perfect sense. It allows us to build off-ramps and on-ramps to shift as the market or conditions dictate.
Worrying is two things. First, it’s an affront to God. Second, it’s early and unnecessary suffering.
There’s a difference between, “If this happens, we have some options…” and “Oh, no, Chicken Little, the sky really IS falling!”
Anticipate and plan, but don’t worry. Unnecessary suffering sounds icky.
Larry Bartruff says
Love this Seneca quote. It’s been a great reminder for me the last few years. Originally saw it through some of Ryan Holiday’s writing. Have you seen his books on the stoic? Hope all is well Steve..
Steve Heston says
Larry! The Daily Stoic is part of my morning routine, and Ryan’s influence has consistently been a positive for me. Not Wayne Bartruff positive, but positive nonetheless! Thanks for joining the conversation.