Member-only story
Self-sufficiency Is The Greatest of All Wealth — Epicurus
It pays to find a balance between your desires and your ability to satisfy them
In our modern world, the pursuit of wealth is an important priority.
But wealth as an ultimate goal doesn’t solve our deep insatiable need for contentment. “For many men, the acquisition of wealth does not end their troubles, it only changes them,” Seneca said.
As we chase after financial stability, we often overlook the importance of self-sufficiency. The secret to satisfaction has nothing to do with achievement, money, or stuff, Arthur C. Brooks said.
When we are self-sufficient, we can control our lives, pursue what brings out the best in us and design the life we want. We become more confident, independent, and resilient.
People who are self-sufficient are often more resilient in the face of challenges because they have the confidence and skills necessary to handle difficult situations.
They are less likely to become overwhelmed or dependent on others when things get tough, and they are more likely to be able to find solutions to problems on their own.
Epicurus, an ancient Greek philosopher and founder of Epicureanism once said, “Self-sufficiency is the greatest of all wealth .” “The most important consequence of self-sufficiency is freedom,” he said.
Epicurus was the founder of the Epicurean school of philosophy, which emphasised the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain, but in a way that was based on reason and moderation.
It pays to find a balance between your desires and your ability to satisfy them
“Be moderate in order to taste the joys of life in abundance,” said.
In the context of his broader philosophical teachings, Epicurus emphasised the importance of living a simple, moderate, and self-sufficient life to achieve true happiness and peace of mind.
He thought that by living a simple and moderate lifestyle, we could avoid the excesses and indulgences that can lead to unhappiness and suffering.
