8 Powerful Morning Questions by Epictetus That Changed How I Start My Day
Start your day like a Stoic.
Stoic philosopher Epictetus is rewiring my morning reflection. To meet the day with intention, he recommended eight questions we should ask ourselves first thing in the morning.
I use them to cut through morning distractions. They demand clarity, honesty, and courage. Epictetus thought facing yourself every morning was a better way to start your day. These questions force me to reflect, look inward, and take responsibility.
These questions show me the path to clarity, accountability, and choice. The act of asking — of reflecting — changes how I meet the day.
In his book, The Discourses (4.6.34–35), he writes:
“Ask yourself the following first thing in the morning: What am I lacking in attaining freedom from passion? What for tranquility? What am I? A mere body, estate-holder, or reputation? None of these things. What, then? A rational being. What then is demanded of me? Meditate on your actions. How did I steer away from serenity? What did I do that was unfriendly, unsocial, or uncaring? What did I fail to do in all these things?”
