Stoic Quote of the Day

Monday, February 23, 2026

Use thyself even unto those things that thou doest at first despair of. For the left hand we see, which for the most part hieth idle because not used; yet doth it hold the bridle with more strength than the right, because it hath been used unto it.
Marcus Aurelius

Embrace activities that initially seem daunting because persistence and practice can reveal unexpected strengths. Just as a left hand, typically less dexterous due to underuse, can become adept at holding a bridle with greater strength through consistent practice, so too can we develop abilities in areas where we once believed we lacked competence. This idea encourages us to tackle challenges rather than shy away from them, suggesting that initial difficulty should not deter us from efforts of improvement. For instance, consider someone hesitant to learn a new language due to its complexity; with patient and regular practice, they may eventually find themselves conversing fluently. Similarly, a person who feels incapable of public speaking can become an engaging orator by gradually exposing themselves to speaking opportunities. The underlying message is to not underestimate the power of effort and repetition in transforming what seems impossible into a personal strength, reinforcing the importance of perseverance in every aspect of life.