“How nice it is to have out-worn one’s desires and left them behind.”
Seneca, Letters From a Stoic, Letter XII
Freedom comes not from gaining what we want, but from no longer wanting it to begin with. In this quote, Seneca expresses something that goes against most modern societies and is wrapped in Stoic philosophy. To let go of desire, reject it even, is to reclaim your peace.
For more Seneca quotes, click here.
With desire, we often think of drive, ambition, or purpose. But Stoicism makes a clear distinction: natural needs (like for food, shelter, health) are fine, but unnecessary desires (for luxury, praise, power, validation) trap us. They become chains dressed as dreams.
How to Let Go of Desire in Stoicism
Letting go of desire doesn’t mean becoming passive or standing still. It means seeing what is within your control and what is not, and no longer allowing your happiness to depend on getting what you crave. We are aiming at applying virtue in everything we do and focusing our attention here.
To let go of desire in Stoicism is to trade craving for contentment, impulse for intention. To live a meaningful life filled with gratitude.
Three Practical Ways to Start Letting Go
- Simplify your wants. Ask yourself: Do I really need this, or do I just want it because others do?
- Shift from “more” to “enough.” The Stoic mindset values enough over excess.
- Reflect on past desires. How many things you once wanted still matter today? Let that insight guide your current choices.
Seneca’s reflection reminds us: it is a joy, not a loss, to outgrow unnecessary desire. When we prune our wants, we make space for peace.
Want to explore more Stoic strategies?
Book a free consultation with one of our Stoic Coaches or read more on the Seneca Quotes page. You can also listen to the Via Stoica podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or watch it on YouTube.
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