Life two thousand years ago was far different from modern times. Electricity was only possible in the mind of a madman, twenty people shared one public restroom and warfare was still centered around people’s physical abilities.

One thing that hasn’t changed a bit though are human emotions and feelings relating to life in a society. With this exceptional piece of work Seneca proves to be still far ahead of the majority of people today in terms of self-consciousness and the idea of a minimalistic lifestyle.

To dive a little bit deeper into the latter point: minimalism - an idea that is contemporarily gaining a lot of popularity - is not the invention of a modern day and age’s genius. And why would it be? Materialism has existed ever since men grew to be affected by wealth - materialistic wealth that comes in the form of gold, an unnecessary amount of space and power. These factors have been major distractions to the human mind. A fact that Seneca managed to understand and which put him in a superior position towards his peers.

This subject is only one of many interesting topics the Roman philosopher is touching upon. The point that stuck with me most after reading this book is to always have yourself in mind and that time really is the most precious thing life has to offer. He showed me that even if I don’t like the status quo of society and I do not agree with the majority’s viewpoints I should not worry and everything is fine as long as I use time that I have to myself in a useful way.

Productivity and the aim of thriving in the things you love are some of the most important aspects to keep in mind. Self-indulgence and a waste of time (e.g. in the form of basic entertainment) on the other hand are there to be eliminated and only distractions on the mission of freeing oneself.

‘On the Shortness of Life’ is a piece of work I definitely have to revisit to enjoy all of its fruits hanging on a beautiful tree of wisdom.


- "As far as I am concerned, I know that I have lost not wealth but distractions."