# On Appetites and Self-Discipline explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

A single, stark aphorism advising the reader to actively discipline their desires rather than suffer the consequences of being controlled by them.

## Themes in this chapter

### Practical Ethics and Self-Discipline

The core theme is the active, practical work of self-mastery, framing the restraint of appetites as a preferable, proactive choice to avoid passive suffering.

### Moderation and Simplicity

Implied through the call to punish appetites, which is a practice aimed at achieving moderation and a life free from the complexity of uncontrolled desires.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The author of the aphorism, delivering direct, practical ethical instruction.

## Key lines

> Choose rather to punish your appetites than to be punished through them.

It is better to actively control and deny your cravings than to suffer the negative outcomes they cause when you indulge them.

_A concise call to proactive self-discipline over passive victimhood._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters/cxiii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters