“Forward, as occasion offers. Never look round to see whether any shall note it… Be satisfied with success in even the smallest matter, and think that even such a result is no trifle.”
- April 26, 121 – March 17, 180
- Roman Empire
- Roman Emperor
- Influenced by Stoic philosophy, he wrote “Meditations” and practiced ideal governance as a philosophical leader, and was later praised as one of the Five Good Emperors.
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Quote
“Forward, as occasion offers. Never look round to see whether any shall note it… Be satisfied with success in even the smallest matter, and think that even such a result is no trifle.”
Explanation
Marcus Aurelius advocates for focused action without concern for external recognition. In this quote, he suggests that we should move forward with purpose, seizing opportunities as they arise, without pausing to seek approval or attention. The Stoic ideal is to pursue virtue and progress for their own sake, rather than for the reward of praise or validation from others. In this way, one remains true to the principles of self-discipline and integrity, acting according to what is right, not what will be noticed by others.
For Aurelius, the value of any action lies not in its external recognition but in the act itself and the virtue it embodies. Whether the task is large or small, taking pride in completing it to the best of one’s ability is enough. This mindset was essential for Aurelius as a ruler, navigating the constant demands of his role, where success was often not immediately acknowledged or appreciated. His words remain relevant today, where the pursuit of instant recognition and external rewards can sometimes overshadow the value of inner fulfillment and quiet accomplishments.
In modern terms, this quote reminds us to focus on the process rather than the outcome or praise. For instance, when working on a project or pursuing a personal goal, it’s important to find satisfaction in progress, even in small steps, without obsessing over whether others are noticing. By doing so, we cultivate a sense of self-worth that is not dependent on external validation but on the commitment to doing what is right and meaningful. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to our overall growth and aligns us more closely with our true values.
