"The safest way to get what you want is to deserve what you want." - Charlie Munger
The best way to achieve your goals is by becoming the kind of person who is worthy of them.
QUOTES
3/21/20242 min read
Earning Your Desires: A Stoic Approach to Achievement
Foreword: This quote reveals a fundamental principle of Stoicism: true fulfillment comes from aligning our efforts and character with our goals.
Quote: "The safest way to get what you want is to deserve what you want." - Charlie Munger
A Modern Translation: The best way to achieve your goals is by becoming the kind of person who is worthy of them.
Simple Explanation: This quote emphasizes the importance of personal development and integrity. Instead of chasing shortcuts, Stoics believe the most reliable path to success is focusing on self-improvement and cultivating the qualities that make us deserving of what we desire.
Question
Do you agree? True or false?
What's one goal you have, and what steps can you take to become more deserving of reaching it?
Can you think of an example where someone achieved success but lost it due to a lack of personal integrity?
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Deep Dive
This quote resonates with the core Stoic idea of virtue as its own reward. Seneca wrote, "The reward of a thing well done is to have done it." By focusing on becoming a better person – more disciplined, just, or courageous – we find inner fulfillment, regardless of external outcomes.
The focus on "deserving" connects to the Stoic emphasis on personal responsibility. Taking ownership of our growth helps us achieve a sense of agency rather than relying on luck or circumstance. Marcus Aurelius observed, "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts."
True success, according to Stoicism, comes from aligning our desires with our values. When we focus on the inner work of character development, success becomes a byproduct of this effort. However, as the quote implies, chasing goals without personal integrity can lead to fleeting satisfaction or even self-sabotage.
Applicable Situations
Goal setting: Consider not just the "what" of your goals, but the "who" – the kind of person you need to become to achieve those goals sustainably.
Facing setbacks: Stoicism reminds us that disappointment can be an opportunity to re-evaluate whether our goals reflect our values and adjust our approach accordingly.
Career and business: Building a career or business on integrity and competence cultivates the kind of trust and reputation that leads to long-term success.
Action Items
Identify your core values: What truly matters to you? Use them as a compass when setting goals and making decisions.
Focus on daily actions: What habits can you develop that align with your values and goals?
Practice self-reflection: Regularly evaluate your efforts—are you becoming the kind of person who deserves your desired outcomes?
Modern Connections
The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30): This biblical story explores the importance of wisely and diligently using the resources entrusted to us, mirroring the Stoic emphasis on personal development and responsibility.
Warren Buffett's investing success: Buffett is known for choosing to invest in companies with strong management and ethical business practices, aligning with the principle of "deserving" success over seeking quick gains.
Sports scandals: Athletes who use unethical means to achieve success (like doping) often face the downfall that comes with violating personal integrity, even if they initially achieve their goal of winning.
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