We Can Learn Morality from Marcus Aurelius

Ancient Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius is well known for his writings in “The Meditations.”  The book is a mixture of personal advice, life observations and moral teachings. 

These writings can teach us many things and the beauty of many of them is their simplicity.  One of the simplest but most profound is:

“If it is not right, do not do it; if it is not true, do not say it.”

Simple but so Effective

Why is this simple phrase so powerful?  The reason is because of the definiteness of it.  It does not say:  if it is not right, try not to do it.  The phrase is absolute and that is what makes it so easy to understand.  There is no possibility of misunderstanding.

So, what does that mean for us?  It means that there are no variations of morality and the right behaviour.  What is right is right and what is wrong is wrong, that is all.  This is very liberating because we do not have to think about it or worry about it.  We only have to strive to do what we know is right and that is the point.

Doing what is right and saying what is true without compromise or wavering will make a huge positive difference to your psychology and your reputation.  You will not have to think about your decisions and will be known for having a great reputation for reliability and honesty.

Use this simple phrase for some incredible results.