“For the wise man regards wealth as a slave, the fool as a master, the wise man accords no importance to wealth, but in your eyes wealth is everything.”
Seneca, Dialogues and Essays, On the Happy Life, 26
Seneca’s words strike at the core of one of humanity’s oldest temptations, letting money dictate our choices, our relationships, and even our self-worth. In the Stoic view on wealth, money is neither good nor bad; it’s a tool. And tools are meant to serve us, not enslave us.
The Stoics understood that wealth, like health or status, belongs to the category of “preferred indifferents”, things we might like to have, but which do not define the quality of our life. Virtue, not wealth, is the true measure of happiness.
Practical reflections or insights
1. Keep wealth in its proper place
If you see money as a master, it will drive your decisions, limit your freedom, and tie your peace of mind to the market’s ups and downs. If you see it as a servant, it becomes a means to live according to your values, not a reason to betray them.
2. Avoid the illusion of “enough”
The fool’s trap is believing happiness lies just beyond the next raise, the next bonus, the next windfall. The Stoic view on wealth reminds us that the desire for more has no natural end. The wise person measures wealth not by accumulation, but by contentment and her character.
3. Practice wealth without attachment
Seneca himself was wealthy, but he trained himself to be ready to lose it without distress. You can practice the same detachment by periodically living simply, proving to yourself that your peace doesn’t depend on possessions.
FAQ Section
What is the Stoic view on wealth?
Wealth is a “preferred indifferent”, something that can be used for good but does not determine a person’s virtue or happiness.
Did Seneca think being rich was bad?
No. Seneca believed wealth was acceptable as long as it did not control you. The problem arises when money becomes a master rather than a servant.
How can I apply this Stoic lesson today?
Use money to support a virtuous life, but don’t stake your self-worth or peace of mind on it. Practice gratitude and contentment with what you already have.
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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