The Book That Changed My Way of Life

Most people probably feel that the name 'Epictetus, the Slave Philosopher' sounds a bit unapproachable. If I asked my past self, I think I would get the same answer.
The reason I bought this book is that I first heard an overview of it on a podcast, and I thought to myself that I wanted to live like this too.
In today's world, starting with social media, it is impossible to avoid comparing ourselves to others, isn't it?
I am often told to raise my self-esteem, and I have read books on that subject, but the content didn't really resonate with me.
Since it would be a lot if it gets too long, I have summarized the part that impressed me the most in my own way.

: "The Dichotomy of Control"

The foundation of Epictetus's philosophy, which is consistently preached throughout this book, is the way of thinking that clearly separates "things we can control" from "things we cannot control."

Things you can control (things that depend on you):

Your own thoughts, intentions, desires, aversions, etc.—your "state of mind" or "will."

Things you cannot control (things that do not depend on you):

Other people's evaluations, other people's actions, illness, the body, the past or future, social conditions, etc.

[The Essence of the Teaching]

Our suffering and anxiety do not arise from the events themselves, but from our attachment to trying to control "things that are beyond our power." Focus only on what you can change, and accept what you cannot change as it is.

I think I was what you call a "highly sensitive person" who worried about what others thought, but I remember the tension in my shoulders instantly melting away when I heard that I should just focus on what I can do. This book also includes manga, making it easy to read.
I hope this will be of some help to those who are worried about their way of life.