Life is full of moments when we’re faced with difficult decisions or challenges, and in those moments, we search for something to give us clarity—a guiding principle or phrase that resonates deeply. It’s why many people turn to Stoic philosophy. The works of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca offer timeless wisdom condensed into quotes that help us navigate life’s complexities. But these aren’t just abstract ideas; they’re practical tools for gaining perspective when we need it most.
One of the ideas that’s been forming in my mind over time—through reflection on Stoic teachings and personal experience—is this simple phrase:
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“I do what I think is right, and that’s enough.”
It’s a personal mantra I’ve come to rely on. Though rooted in Stoic philosophy, it’s my own spin on ancient ideas about virtue, agency, and inner peace. Let’s explore what it means, why it’s important, and how it can help you live a life aligned with your values.
The Power of a Guiding Idea
Throughout history, people have relied on guiding ideas—short phrases that capture profound truths. Think of Marcus Aurelius’s famous quote from Meditations (6.2):
“Just do the right thing. The rest doesn’t matter.”
Or Epictetus’s reminder:
“If you want to improve, be content to be thought foolish and stupid.”
These quotes remind us to focus on what we can control: our actions, intentions, and character. Everything else—outcomes, opinions, and praise—doesn’t matter.
When you find yourself struggling, these phrases act as a compass, pointing you back to what truly matters. Over time, as you reflect on these ideas, you might even develop your own personal mantra—something that resonates uniquely with you. For me, that mantra became:
“I do what I think is right, and that’s enough.”
Breaking Down the Mantra: What It Really Means
At first glance, the phrase seems simple. But let’s break it down to see the deeper Stoic principles behind it.
1. “I do” — The Importance of Action
The first part of the phrase, “I do,” emphasizes action. It’s not enough to simply know what’s right or think about it; you have to act on it.
There’s often a gap between what we know is right and what we actually do. We might know the virtuous path, but human nature and weakness often hold us back. Stoicism teaches that it’s not enough to have good intentions—you must do the right thing.
Inaction is a common human flaw. We hesitate, overthink, or procrastinate. But this mantra reminds us that action is key.
2. “What I think is right” — Moral Intentions and Humility
The phrase “what I think is right” is a crucial addition.
Notice that it doesn’t say “what I know is right.” Why? Because we’re imperfect. We’re not Stoic sages with perfect wisdom. We’re human, and we make mistakes.
Including the word “think” adds humility to the statement. It acknowledges that we might be wrong, but as long as our intentions are good, that’s what matters.
This is a key Stoic principle: Virtue lies in our moral intentions. Even if our actions don’t produce the desired outcome, we can take solace in knowing that we acted with integrity.
As Marcus Aurelius said:
“The only thing that matters is that you do the right thing—not how others perceive it.”
3. “And that’s enough” — Letting Go of External Validation
The final part of the mantra is “and that’s enough.”
What does it mean for something to be enough? It means finding inner peace in knowing that you acted according to your values. It means not needing external validation to feel complete.
Too often, we tie our self-worth to outcomes or other people’s opinions. We think we’ll feel “enough” if we succeed, receive praise, or win approval. But Stoicism teaches that inner peace comes from within, not from external circumstances.
Epictetus famously said:
“It is not things that disturb us, but our opinions about them.”
By doing what you believe is right, you free yourself from the need for praise, recognition, or success. The act of living virtuously is its own reward.
The Stoic Principle of Virtue as the Only Good
At the core of this mantra is the Stoic belief that virtue is the only true good. The Stoics taught that:
• External outcomes don’t matter.
• Other people’s opinions don’t matter.
• What matters is your inner character and moral integrity.
In The Dark Knight, there’s a scene where Batman sacrifices his reputation to do what’s right. He becomes a scapegoat, letting people think he’s a villain, even though he’s acting virtuously.
That’s the essence of Stoic courage: being willing to be misunderstood, disliked, or even hated if it means staying true to your values.
Applying This Mantra in Daily Life
How do we apply this idea—“I do what I think is right, and that’s enough”—in our daily lives?
Here are three practical ways:
1. Focus on Your Own Actions, Not Others’ Reactions
We often get caught up worrying about how others perceive us. But Stoicism teaches that we can’t control other people’s thoughts or actions.
Instead, focus on what you can control: your actions, your intentions, and your moral integrity.
2. Accept That You Won’t Always Get It Right
We’re human, and we’ll make mistakes. But as long as your actions are guided by good intentions, you can find peace in knowing you tried to do what’s right.
It’s about progress, not perfection.
3. Let Go of the Need for Praise or Success
Whether people praise you or criticize you, it doesn’t matter. Whether your actions lead to success or failure, it doesn’t matter.
What matters is that you acted with integrity.
A Final Thought: Inner Peace Through Virtue
When we say, “I do what I think is right, and that’s enough,” what we’re really saying is:
• I don’t need praise.
• I don’t need success.
• I don’t need external validation.
All I need is to know that I acted according to my values.
And that brings inner peace—the ultimate goal of Stoic philosophy.
As Marcus Aurelius put it:
“Waste no more time arguing about what a good person should be. Be one.”
So, as you go through life, hold this mantra close:
“I do what I think is right, and that’s enough.”
And let that be enough. Always.
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Excellent podcast! I found myself nodding along often.
One thing I kept pondering both during and after the podcast was the proverb, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” I’ve never understood that and your podcast was underscoring my confusion. If I am acting only with the best of intentions, and that action is “good enough,” how can I be paving the way to the ultimate negative outcome?
I finally hit on this concept:The intentions you are acting with must be “examined” intentions. Just as good outcomes do not make up for acting poorly (as you posited, I think correctly), unthinking good intention likewise isn’t good enough. You have to think it through.
So: the road to hell is paved with unthinking good intention. Similarly: I act with examined good intentions, and that’s good enough.
Excellent podcast! I found myself nodding along often.
One thing I kept pondering both during and after the podcast was the proverb, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” I’ve never understood that and your podcast was underscoring my confusion. If I am acting only with the best of intentions, and that action is “good enough,” how can I be paving the way to the ultimate negative outcome?
I finally hit on this concept:The intentions you are acting with must be “examined” intentions. Just as good outcomes do not make up for acting poorly (as you posited, I think correctly), unthinking good intention likewise isn’t good enough. You have to think it through.
So: the road to hell is paved with unthinking good intention. Similarly: I act with examined good intentions, and that’s good enough.
Thanks, Brandon. This helped me to get my thinking straight today 🙏🏻