Epicurus
Epicurus was an ancient Greek philosopher (341–270 BC) who founded Epicureanism, a school teaching that tranquility and freedom from fear are the foundations of a happy life.
3 quotes in this collection. Read them below, share your favourites, or follow the related links to explore similar voices.
All quotes by Epicurus
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“Self-sufficiency is the greatest of all wealth.”
Meaning: Epicurus argued that needing little makes you hard to disappoint, because happiness depends on what you can provide for yourself rather than what others supply. Try it this week: before buying something to lift your mood, name one free thing you already own or can do that would do the same. -
“What is good is easy to get, and what is terrible is easy to endure.”
Meaning: The last line of the Tetrapharmakos, a four-part Epicurean cure preserved by Philodemus, which also says not to fear gods or death. It reassures that simple pleasures are close at hand and pain is bearable. When stressed, list three simple comforts within reach today. -
“He who is not satisfied with a little, is satisfied with nothing.”
Meaning: A teaching from the Epicurean tradition: if a modest amount never feels like enough, a larger amount will not fix the feeling either. Satisfaction is a habit of attention. At dinner tonight, pause to notice what is already on your plate before reaching for more.