The article explores the increasing trend of stoic philosophy in contemporary discourse, particularly the frequent quoting and interpretation of figures like Epictetus, a key exponent of stoicism. It points out that while phrases attributed to him, especially the call to 'embark on a journey,' are widely discussed, their contemporary interpretations may stray from their original meanings and contexts. Besides, many interpretations do not align with the core philosophical ideas presented in Epictetus' works.

The author argues that the notion of undertaking a journey should not be understood merely in the literal sense of travel but rather as a metaphorical call to personal growth, self-examination, and the willingness to change one’s convictions. The initial essence of epictetus's philosophy emphasizes internal reflection and the importance of overcoming stagnation in one's life rather than seeking physical movement.

By acknowledging these nuances, the article advocates for a more contextual understanding of stoic philosophy, encouraging readers to delve deeper into the original works of thinkers like Epictetus, rather than merely adopting surface-level interpretations that can often distort their true messages.