Time to think…about reason and resolve

“Remember that your ruling reason becomes unconquerable when it rallies and relies on itself, so that it won’t do anything contrary to its own will, even if its position is irrational. How much more unconquerable if its judgements are careful and made rationally? Therefore, the mind freed from passions is an impenetrable fortress – a person has no more secure place of refuge for all time.” Marcus Aurelius, Meditations.

Once you are aware of what is important to you and why – your values that guide your life – keep them front of mind at all times. Make their power stronger by considering the situations when passion and high emotions might otherwise distract you. Prepare for that battle, so when it comes, your resolve is strong enough to endure. In the words of the 18th century Russian General Suvorov, ‘Train hard, fight easy.’