Self-Denial: An Exercise in Tolerating Frustration

  It might seem strange to talk about self-denial in a world devoted to immediate gratification. Moreover, you might wonder what the point is of voluntarily limiting or depriving yourself of pleasure. After all, isn’t the goal to avoid any discomfort instead of looking for it? However, stoics believe that self-denial makes a great deal of sense. Stoicism is a philosophical doctrine that promotes tolerance and self-control as ways of achieving a pleasant and balanced life. Self-denial would be one way of achieving these laudable goals. Stoics believe that one of the keys to happiness is moderation. They also argue…