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Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday, framework 4 of 5

The impartial spectator

Adam Smith's test for judging your own conduct instead of relying on applause.

Ryan Holiday's framework, from Ego Is the Enemy, pp. 134 to 182.

  1. Before you act

    Picture how an indifferent observer would view what you are about to do, resisting the eagerness of passion.

  2. After you act

    Review the action once the passions have subsided and judge it as that observer would.

From chapter: PART III: FAILURE, pp. 134–182

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