Do not constantly compare yourself with people who own more. Also notice what is already enough in your life.
01 / Meaning
Notice What Is Already Enough
What does it mean?
The thought survives as fragment B191. A fragment is a short piece of a lost text. Stobaeus included it in a collection several centuries later. The text advises us to limit our desires and stop measuring what we own against the possessions of richer people.
Comparison can create new desires. Your own life may then feel too small, even when it already provides security and joy. When you examine your needs, you can feel grateful and still keep growing.
02 / Practice
Put this thought into practice
Write down one thing that gives your life security or joy today.
Name one desire that arose mainly from comparing yourself with other people.
Check whether this desire supports one of your own goals.
03 / Your task
5 minutesWrite two short sentences: “… is already enough for me.” and “I want … because …”.
Personal growth begins with one small step.
04 / Reflection
Reflection question
Which desire truly belongs in your life?
Let the question stay with you for a moment. An honest answer matters more than a quick one.
06
Source and context
Clear paraphrase of fragment B191
Historical note: the works of Democritus are lost. Fragment B191 survives through the later collection of Stobaeus. The authenticity of some ethical sayings is disputed. Today’s thought is a clear paraphrase, not a direct quotation.
Open the referenced source: Democritus, fragment B191; preserved by Stobaeus