The Trick To Being Relaxed and Dedicated

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It seems like a paradox— Stoics want to be relaxed and at peace, and yet dedicated to achieving things.

How can we be serious about justice or reaching a business or personal goal if we have to also be relaxed about it? A serious drive to achieve anything seems to sabotage peace of mind.  

The answer is simple but not easy — as Epictetus says, “Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens.”

So we dedicate ourselves to doing what we have control over while writing off the results as unimportant. Nothing can impede our intentions and goals, but the external outcomes are ultimately out of our hands. 

You can be relaxed and dedicated. 

Just because you worry more, doesn't mean you care more. 

So relax, and set your mind on what’s under your complete control. The rest will take care of itself.