The Master or The Servant

Words I think about often:

"It is the nature of the wise man to resist pleasures, but of a foolish man to be a slave to them."

— Epictetus

Pleasure is everywhere.

Scroll dopamine.

Fast food fixes.

Shortcuts. Escapes. Hits of comfort.

It’s nonstop.

That said, none of it is evil alone.

But all of it is dangerous — if you stop noticing who's in control.

I love indulging.

• Cheat meal? H*ll yeah

• Cheesecake for dinner? Let’s go

• Night out and a few cocktails? I’m ready

• Relax on the couch and watch TV all day? Sounds like a perfect Sunday

The wise person can enjoy these without being owned.

The foolish person?

He needs it.

He plans his day around it.

He calls it balance, but it’s really bondage.

Here’s a simple test:

Can you say no — and mean it?

That’s freedom.

That’s strength.

That’s training for the real stuff.

Whether it’s sugar or ego or comfort —

You’re either the master or the servant.

Here’s the final catch: Don’t be fooled by your own justification.

Can you actually NOT check your phone? Or do you HAVE to pick it up every 5 minutes.

Can you actually CHEAT on your diet, but be back on track for the next meal?

👉 Pick one small pleasure this week. Delay it. Deny it.

See what happens to your mind when you do.

Until next Monday,

– Tim

____

PS:

There’s nothing wrong with pleasure.

Just don’t let it walk you on a leash.