10 Stoic Quotes on Overcoming Adversity

  • “The greater the difficulty, the more glory in surmounting it. Skillful pilots gain their reputation from storms and tempests.” — Epictetus

  • “It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” — Epictetus

  • “Difficulty shows what men are.” — Epictetus

  • “Remember from now on whenever something tends to make you unhappy, draw on this principle: 'This is no misfortune; but bearing with it bravely is a blessing.” — Epictetus

  • “On the occasion of every accident that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use.” — Epictetus

  • “Circumstances don't make the man, they only reveal him to himself.” — Epictetus

  • “The bravest sight in the world is to see a great man struggling against adversity.” — Seneca

  • “You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” — Marcus Aurelius

  • “Fire tests gold, suffering tests brave men.” — Seneca

  • “Here is a rule to remember in future, when anything tempts you to feel bitter: not "This is misfortune," but "To bear this worthily is good fortune."” — Marcus Aurelius