Seven Clear Functions of the Mind

Simplifying Life’s Choices

Marcus Aurelius spoke of seven functions of the mind—choice, refusal, yearning, repulsion, preparation, purpose, and assent. While insightful, this framework can feel overly complex for daily life. Instead, I propose a more straightforward approach:

  1. Pursue What’s Good for You in the Long Run
    Focus on what aligns with your values and contributes to your growth. Prioritize what truly matters and commit fully to it.

  2. Remove What’s Not Good for You
    Identify distractions, toxic habits, or negative influences. Remove them to create space for what is meaningful.

You simplify your path by distilling life’s decisions into these two principles. It’s not about mastering intricate frameworks—it’s about focusing on growth and clarity. Keep it simple, and you’ll move forward with purpose and freedom.

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The Struggle to Remove What Doesn’t Serve Us

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