Self Discipline

Chapter XLVII, Enchiridion

When you have learned to nourish your body frugally, do not pique yourself upon it; nor, if you drink water, be saying upon every occasion, “I drink water.” But first consider how much more frugal are the poor than we, and how much more patient of hardship. If at any time you would inure yourself by exercise to labor and privation, for your own sake and not for the public, do not attempt great feats; but when you are violently thirsty, just rinse your mouth with water, and tell nobody.

Thoughts

a. Stoicism advocated that people should live frugally. They should have few material possessions and be very mindful of what they eat and drink. The desire for and the avoidance of anything is a controllable.

b. Increased self discipline improves spiritual development. Monks with vows of poverty and chastity.

c. Accustom yourself to hardship by by small tasks. Do not be looking for the quick and large victory.

d. Have gratitude for what you have. Think of others who endure poverty and starvation without complaint.

e. Do not annoy yourself while practicing self discipline with negative self talk. Reframe into picture of others or gratitude.

f. Take a mouth rinse even if you desire a large volume. Self discipline. Do not eat the whole box of sweets !

g. Say nothing or your tribulations to others. Suffer in silence. Humility and ego deflation process? Mental toughness, get on with it, endure hardship silently.