"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies; for the hardest victory is over self"
- Aristotle
About this Quote
Aristotle's quote speaks to the idea that the best victory is not over an enemy, however over oneself. He recommends that it is more brave to overcome one's own desires than to conquer an enemy. This is since the most tough battle is the one within, the fight to control one's own thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is much easier to fight an external opponent than to eliminate the internal fight of self-discipline. Aristotle's quote motivates us to pursue self-mastery, to be brave enough to conquer our own desires and to be victorious over our own weaknesses. It is just through this type of inner strength that we can truly be triumphant in life.
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