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Why do we strive for perfection if it is not attainable?
Perfection deemed glorious. Therefore, we rather strive for glory.
In the pursuit of wisdom and tranquility, as Stoics, we believe that striving for perfection, even if it remains unattainable, serves a noble purpose. Our goal is not to achieve flawless perfection in a superficial sense, but rather to perfect our own virtues and inner character.
The Stoic philosophy teaches us that the path to true fulfillment lies in aligning our actions and attitudes with reason and virtue. While absolute perfection may be beyond our grasp due to the limitations of human nature and the unpredictability of external events, the journey towards it has immense value. It is through this ongoing effort that we cultivate virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and self-discipline.
The pursuit of perfection serves as a guide, a constant reminder of our potential and the standards we should strive to uphold. We acknowledge that setbacks and failures are inevitable, but it is in our response to these challenges that we grow and learn. The process of striving for perfection helps us build resilience, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of our own strengths and weaknesses.
Furthermore, the Stoic perspective encourages us to focus on what we can control — our thoughts, attitudes, and choices — rather than fixating on external outcomes. In this sense, the pursuit of perfection is not about achieving flawless results, but about living in accordance with our highest values, regardless of the circumstances.
Ultimately, the Stoic ideal of perfection is an inner state of harmony and virtue, rather than an external state of flawlessness. Our journey towards this ideal shapes our character, fosters humility, and brings us closer to leading a life of wisdom, serenity, and moral excellence.
* It’s a Northstar to point a direction to head not a place to arrive at.
* If perfection is attainable then we should strive for progress, since progression will get us to perfection. If perfection…
