Quote of - July 1, 2025
The first and greatest victory is to conquer yourself.
Context
Plato points to the most significant battle we will ever face: the one within. While external achievements are celebrated, the foundational victory that makes all others possible is the conquest of our own weaknesses, fears, and negative impulses.
To "conquer yourself" means to exercise discipline over your thoughts, to manage your emotions, and to align your actions with your values rather than your momentary desires. This self-mastery is the ultimate source of personal power and freedom, as it makes you the master of your own destiny, not a slave to your habits or circumstances.
This quote reminds us that before we can conquer any external challenge, we must first win the internal war. This inner victory is the greatest achievement of all.