Follow-through

In The Enchiridion, by Epictetus, entry 29, there is a piece of advice that applies greatly to me, perhaps more than any other piece of advice in the entire manual: 

In everything you do consider what comes first and what follows, and so approach it. Otherwise you will come to it with a good heart at first because you have not reflected on any of the consequences, and afterwards, when difficulties have appeared, you will desist to your shame.

In all endeavors it is not the first step that counts for the most, but the following steps that bring plans to fruition. How many are the projects planned, pondered, developed, and started but never seen through to the end? When beginning, have the end in sight, but stay focused on the path, on the individual steps required to achieve that goal. But first, pick worthy goals that challenge but do not require a new man for you must do the work with what you have. 

This blog, and the included website (www.stoicfreedom.com), were started in a flurry of activity that covered approximately one day. But now it's necessary to follow-through and do the work; sustain the energy over the 52 weeks I set for myself. Is this a worthwhile undertaking? Is this something I can apply my energy towards? I believe so. Keep well.