Quotes from book
Meditations

Meditations
Marcus AureliusOriginal title Τὰ εἰς ἑαυτὸν

Meditations is a series of personal writings by Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor from 161 to 180 AD, recording his private notes to himself and ideas on Stoic philosophy.

Marcus Aurelius photo

“It's unfortunate that this has happened. No. It's fortunate that this has happened and I've remained unharmed by it—not shattered by the present or frightened of the future. It could have happened to anyone. But not everyone could have remained unharmed by it.”

Marcus Aurelius book Meditations

Source: Meditations (c. AD 121–180), Book IV, 49a

Marcus Aurelius photo

“You're better off not giving the small things more time than they deserve.”

Marcus Aurelius book Meditations

Hays translation
Source: Meditations (c. AD 121–180), Book IV, 32

Marcus Aurelius photo

“Because most of what we say and do is not essential. If you can eliminate it, you'll have more time, and more tranquillity. Ask yourself at every moment, “Is this necessary?” But we need to eliminate unnecessary assumptions as well. To eliminate the unnecessary actions that follow.”

Marcus Aurelius book Meditations

Hays translation
Source: Meditations (c. AD 121–180), Book IV, 24

Marcus Aurelius photo

“Not to live as if you had endless years ahead of you. Death overshadows you. While you're alive and able—be good.”

Marcus Aurelius book Meditations

Hays translation
Source: Meditations (c. AD 121–180), Book IV, 17

Marcus Aurelius photo

“Choose what's best.—Best is what benefits me.”

Marcus Aurelius book Meditations

Hays translation
Source: Meditations (c. AD 121–180), Book III, 6

Marcus Aurelius photo

“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.”

Marcus Aurelius book Meditations

Hays translation
Source: Meditations (c. AD 121–180), Book II, 5