Chapter 1: The Importance of Commitment

In life, each individual must assess when it is appropriate to step back from their professional endeavors. This timing varies significantly among people, influenced by differing support systems, and ultimately, this decision rests solely with you.

However, I urge you, Deuteros, to avoid unhappiness while contemplating your future. Whether you find yourself moving forward or stepping back, immerse yourself entirely in your current pursuits. Focus on excelling in the task at hand; this will naturally lead you to your next steps. Conversely, if you dwell on unachieved goals, you risk undermining your own success.

Fully accepting your responsibilities and striving for excellence also entails accepting the repercussions of your choices.

Who cares about others' opinions regarding success, achievement, or leading a fulfilling life? Ultimately, you are the one who lives with the outcomes of your decisions. If you are guided by your own judgment and reach your desired results, why worry about differing aspirations of others?

As I previously noted, to stand out in a world where many fade away, one must challenge conventional thinking. Be an iconoclast not simply for the sake of being different, but to ensure that you form your own conclusions and think independently.

Steve Jobs, a modern-day skeptic, expressed this eloquently: "Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma, which is living the result of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice."

What advice would I offer to newcomers in their careers? Do not fear failure; instead, learn from every experience. It is far more detrimental to your prospects to avoid trying than to occasionally falter.

Consider that those who came before you shared similar thoughts. Understand their motivations before you criticize their actions. Finally, prioritize growth over wealth, at least once your basic needs are met. Use personal development as your guide for making changes.

Once you decide to switch jobs or leave one altogether, the path forward is entirely your choice. To effectively transition, you must accept the changes that come with it.

Should you pursue retirement, be prepared to let go of your office, company car, perks, and some status. Reflect on what you value more: the luxuries or your freedom.

Remember, Deuteros, many lament the burdens of their roles. However, if your position provides benefits that are indispensable, what purpose does complaining serve? You find yourself captive to your desires, willingly embracing this captivity.

Desire must come to an end. You can never accumulate enough if you gauge your worth solely by your income.

Ultimately, none of your wealth or the possessions it affords can accompany you in death. Many individuals do not outlive their riches, as the relentless pursuit of wealth can lead to an early demise.

Consider the elaborate tombs and burial chambers of the Pharaohs, filled to the brim with material wealth. Although their spirits have departed, their possessions remain behind.

I hesitated before sending this message, realizing you had not received your usual pearls of wisdom.

To illustrate that lessons can arise from any source and that the essence matters more than the presentation, I share the words of American televangelist Robert Schuller: "I’d rather attempt to do something great and fail than to attempt to do nothing and succeed."

View your career decisions as a grand adventure. They warrant your utmost effort and full attention, akin to a general’s dedication to a campaign. Once you commit to a decision, do so with the same fervor as Cortés during his exploration of the Americas.

While it’s wise not to sever connections completely, as they can be invaluable, you should metaphorically burn your ships to eliminate any chance of retreat from your chosen course.

Be well.

Chapter 2: The Journey of Learning from Experience

The first video titled "11 Stoic Principles For Personal Success" by Ryan Holiday explores core Stoic principles that can guide you toward a successful and fulfilling life.

The second video, "Think Before You Act - A Stoic's Guide to Making Wiser Decisions," offers insights on making thoughtful choices grounded in Stoic philosophy.