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Wisdom Takes Work

 The final book in Ryan Holiday's Stoic Virtues series came out this year.

The book Wisdom Takes Work is a powerful and thought provoking addition to his phenomenal works on Stoicism. 

The book's central theme is that wisdom ties together all the other virtues. There is no courage, discipline, or justice without wisdom. 

Holiday breaks down the concept of wisdom into five key attributes: knowledge, education, self reflection, truth, and peace. 

Knowledge and education covers both traditional schooling and learning as well as self education, the 'school of life' so to speak. 

As part of the journey to becoming a wise man, or woman, there must be self reflection so that don't just memorise lessons but internalise and apply them. 

Doing this self reflection leads you to look beneath the surface of life leading you to truth and peace. 

If you haven't already, read Ryan Holiday's Virtues series: Courage is Calling, Discipline is Destiny, Right Thing, Right Now, and Wisdom Takes Work. 

It is the perfect New Year's Resolution for 2026.



Philosopher's Mind


Strive for the philosopher's mind, you never know where knowledge might lurk.

My friend, wisdom takes work.

Courage is calling. 

Don't get disheartened if your discipline is falling.


For moderation is your destiny.

It teaches you how to do the right thing right now and be free.

Do not be fooled by the philosopher's stone.

Understand the wise man has a mind of his own.


A philosopher does not need a flyer,

He relies on his internal fire.

Strive for the philosopher's mind, you never know where knowledge might lurk.

My friend, wisdom takes work.


© Chris Van Ingen 31/12/2025

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