In a well-known quote, Seneca asserts that our essence lies in being active, and that resting too long can lead to stagnation, which he metaphorically links to death. He highlights the importance of actions over mere planning or contemplation, emphasizing that our true growth and success come from our willingness to take initiative. For the Stoics, the ability to take action was crucial to facing life's adversity.

The Stoic philosophy, which includes thinkers such as Seneca, Zeno of Citium, and Epictetus, teaches that we should only focus on what we can control: our actions, thoughts, decisions, and opinions. Everything external, including wealth and the actions of others, falls outside our control and should not preoccupy us. This ideology promotes an understanding of suffering and frustration through the lens of personal agency, stressing that inner peace comes from acting in accordance with our values and recognizing the limits of our influence.

Seneca's assertion reminds us that while reflecting on our desires is important, it is our actions that ultimately define our lives and futures. In the context of Stoic thought, achieving ataraxia—or mental clarity and calmness—is not about passivity, but rather about being proactive in the face of life’s challenges. This serves as a call to embrace active engagement with life, rather than succumbing to inertia, ultimately leading to a fulfilling existence.