"If you desire to be good, begin by believing that you are wicked"

Epictetus, a Greek Calm philosopher, thought that self-reflection and also self-awareness were the secrets to living a virtuous life. He said that human beings are inherently flawed and that acknowledging our weak points and also mistakes is the very first step in the direction of self-improvement.

The quote "If you prefer to be excellent, start by believing that you are worthless" envelops Epictetus' belief that humility is necessary for ethical development. By recognizing one's fundamental imperfections and also restrictions, people can make every effort towards progressing versions of themselves.

Epictetus believed that an excellent person is not one who is best but instead one who continually functions to far better themselves. He believed that individuals ought to focus on what they can regulate and also accept what they can not. In this context, recognizing one's imperfections is within an individual's control, and also it is the structure for making needed changes.

In summary, the quote by Epictetus suggests that to come to be an excellent person, one ought to accept as well as recognize their drawbacks and job in the direction of overcoming them regularly. Humility as well as self-reflection are important for ethical growth and personality advancement.