A visitor from Rome, together with his son, was present at one of his lectures when Epictetus said, ‘This is the way I teach’ – then abruptly stopped talking. [2] The man pleaded with him to go on, but Epictetus said: The learning process is boring to anyone completely new to, and unfamiliar with, a skill. [3] Now, the skill’s finished product leaves no doubt as to its utility, most are even pleasing or attractive. [4] It is not exciting, for instance, to follow the progress of a shoemaker in his art, but shoes are not only useful, they are usually aesthetically pleasing to a degree. [5] Or the training of a carpenter – it is very tedious for people who are not carpenters to watch, but the finished cabinetry justifies the effort. [6] Music makes my point most obviously: attend a music lesson, and you will think it involves the most monotonous training of all. But the results please and entertain everyone.
Discourses 2.14.1
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue here is the importance of perseverance and patience in the pursuit of virtue and skill. As Epictetus notes, "The learning process is boring to anyone completely new to, and unfamiliar with, a skill" (Discourses 2.14.2). This reveals that living well often requires enduring the tedious and unexciting aspects of learning and self-improvement.
This passage suggests that we should focus on the long-term benefits and utility of our efforts, rather than being deterred by the initial difficulty or boredom. Epictetus uses the examples of a shoemaker, carpenter, and music lesson to illustrate that the finished product, or the end result, is often what brings pleasure and justification for the effort.
To apply this insight today, one might reflect on their own goals and pursuits. Are there areas where you feel frustrated or bored with the learning process? Perhaps you're struggling to develop a new habit or skill, but feel like giving up due to the initial difficulty. Remember that "the skill's finished product leaves no doubt as to its utility" (Discourses 2.14.3). Focus on the end result, and remind yourself that the effort you put in now will be worth it in the long run.
As you go about your day, ask yourself: What is one area where I can apply patience and perseverance, even if the process feels tedious or boring? By doing so, you can cultivate the virtue of endurance and make progress towards living a more excellent life.