Ep 163 – Identity Before Action

Meta Description: Before you decide what to do, decide who you are. Scott Smith explores how Epictetus reframed focus as identity in motion—action that flows from conviction.🎙️ Episode Summary“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.” — EpictetusEpictetus reminds us that clarity comes before consistency. Focus isn’t about choosing tasks—it’s about choosing identity. When you know who you are, every action becomes deliberate. When you don’t, even good intentions scatter.🧠 What You’ll Learn Today: • How self-definition drives focus • Why clarity simplifies decision-making • How Stoic identity shapes modern leadership • A one-sentence exercise to realign your day💬 Share This With a Leader Who: • Feels pulled in too many directions • Wants to align daily work with purpose • Believes clarity fuels consistency🔁 Stay Connected: Subscribe to The Inner Strategy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. 📊 Sponsored by Fractional — tryfractional.appKeywords/Tags: stoicism, Epictetus, Tony Robbins, focus, identity, purpose, discipline, leadership, personal growth, The Inner Strategy podcast, Scott SmithSupport the show—The Stoic Inner Strategy is a leadership podcast for founders, executives, and other leaders who carry significant responsibility, even when they have a capable team around them.Hosted by Scott Smith, Principal Advisor and founder of Akhada Consulting, each episode explores the judgment, discipline, and leadership capacity required to make sound decisions under pressure, develop stronger people, and build organizations that do not depend on one person carrying everything.Stoic wisdom provides the foundation, but the focus is practical: how to lead yourself, strengthen the people around you, and meet responsibility with clarity, courage, and character.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with occasional interviews and special episodes.If this episode helped you see your leadership more clearly, subscribe to the show and share it with another leader who carries the weight.Connect with Scott:Akhada Consulting: akhadaconsulting.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott8smithEmail: [email protected] Mori. Time is limited. Lead accordingly.