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Value of Freedom from Perturbation: Bjorn must choose between perfectionism and peace of mind.

By Epictetus•School & Academic Life•2 min read•Grade 8.6
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Consider a student who is stressed about getting the best grades. They might realize that focusing on doing their best and learning is more important than just the grades themselves, which helps them feel more at peace.

The Choice

Bjorn must choose between perfectionism and peace of mind.

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.609696748264525
Word Count
357 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Bjorn and Hana are working on a school project together. They have a week left, but Hana is worried because Bjorn seems overly focused on making the project perfect. He's spending hours on small details, while Hana believes they should focus on completing it efficiently and learning from the process. Hana suggests they take a break and enjoy some free time, but Bjorn feels anxious about not meeting high standards. He fears that if they don't get an excellent grade, it might affect his self-esteem and future opportunities. Hana reminds him that peace of mind is more valuable than stress over grades. Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) continue striving for perfection and risk stress, or (B) accept a good effort and maintain peace of mind.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Autonomy
vs
Responsibility

Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.

Your Options

A

Strive for perfection, risk stress

B

Accept good effort, keep peace of mind

Questions for Reflection

Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.

  1. 1

    What would you do, and why?

  2. 2

    How does the principle of peace of mind apply here?

  3. 3

    What are the possible consequences of each choice?

  4. 4

    How might Epictetus advise Bjorn here?

  5. 5

    Think about a time you felt stressed about an outcome. Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?

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Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Epictetus

Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.

Related Topics

peer-pressure
responsibility
self-control
Portrait of Epictetus

Epictetusc. 50-c. 135

Epictetus (c. 50 – c. 135 AD) was a prominent Stoic philosopher who began life as a slave in Phrygia. After gaining freedom, he taught philosophy in Rome and later established a renowned school in Nicopolis. Though he wrote nothing, his teachings, recorded …

Stoicism
The Dichotomy of Control (what is in our power vs. what is not)
Prohairesis (Moral Choice/Volition) and the Correct Use of Impressions
Explore how Epictetus informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
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Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Value of Freedom from Perturbation — 5-10 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify the core ethical tension
  • -Make a quick, reasoned choice

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.Which option did you choose, and why?
  • 2.What would you give up with each choice?
participation
Classroom
Standard15 min

Value of Freedom from Perturbation — 15-20 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify competing values
  • -Articulate trade-offs

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.What would you lose by choosing each option?
  • 2.Is there a third path?
participation
Classroom