Seven Clear Functions of the Mind

“The proper work of the mind is the exercise of choice, refusal, yearning, repulsion, preparation, purpose, and assent.  What then can pollute and clog the mind’s proper functioning?  Nothing but its own corrupt decisions.”

— Epictetus, Discourses, 4.11.6-7

The daily stoic presents these with a quick attribute.  Thought I would take a quick view on them, then maybe come back to see how I see them as I continue through the process.

• Choice — before every action and in everything we do
• Refusal — learn to say no and stay focused on the things most important to you
• Yearning — have ambition for change and improvement
• Repulsion — Reject those things that are holding you back
• Preparation — With each struggle or setback, you will fall back to your level of preparation
• Purpose — This is your drive, your fuel
• Assent — Understand what is success

As I review this, I feel it is presented in this order intentionally.  In any project or effort, you start with a choice to move forward, stay focused by refusing distractions, have a yearning to continue, repulse the temptations to stop, prepare for each possible eventuality, move forward with purpose, and understand when you are done.