his entire life. When asked how he felt at those particular moments, he will surely respond, with great enthusiasm, it felt as if he were on the top of the world (Mills 3). Posed with a second question, how long did that feeling last. He will, more than likely, say not very long (Mills 3). It is this example that proves a person cannot define his self worth on the irrational belief that an external experience has made him significant. A person now may be asking, what is the solution, and how can I achieve the reality of self worth. The answer is simple; one needs to give up the irrational “Musts” and “Shoulds” placed upon himself. It is after this he will learn to accept himself, his existence, and his humanity whether or not he preforms well, whether or not he is loved by others, and whether or not he excels at school, work, or sports. “The position and character of a non- philosopher: he never looks for benefit or harm to come from himself but form out side things out side. The position and character of a philosopher: he looks for all benefit and harm to come form himself (Epictetus 48).” Upon culmination, one can tackle a last quote from the great philosopher Epictetus. The passage above captures the essence of an entire complex therapy and sums it up in a nice-and-neat package. To explain, the unenlightened person will always look for emotions to come form an external experience; whether it is happiness or sadness, the sensations will always be the fault of the uncontrollable. In retrospect, the enlightened person will only allow emotion to come from that which he can control, himself; thus, giving him power over his life and his reactions. Rational-Emotive-Behavior-Therapy is an obvious choice to an individual who demands control in his life. The individual can use this powerful therapy in every aspect of his life; including, but not limited to, controlling negative emotions, fighting dependenc...
