"原則に基づかない行動は一切ない。"

The essence of this quote is that actions should be intentional and grounded in a solid framework of principles. It’s about not doing things just for the sake of doing them. Instead, every action should have a purpose, a reason that ties back to a set of beliefs or values. This idea encourages thoughtfulness and consistency in our behavior.

Historically, this philosophy aligns with the teachings of Stoicism, a school of thought that emerged in ancient Greece and Rome. Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca emphasized the importance of living in accordance with nature and reason. They believed that by adhering to a set of core principles, one could live a virtuous and fulfilling life. This quote echoes that sentiment, advocating for a life where actions are not random but are instead deliberate and principle-driven.

Imagine you’re at work, and you have a colleague who reacts impulsively to every situation. One minute they’re taking on a new project without considering their current workload, and the next, they’re making hasty decisions in meetings without much thought. They’re all over the place. Now, think about another colleague who approaches tasks methodically. They have a clear set of values—they value teamwork, thoroughness, and integrity. Every decision they make, every task they take on, aligns with these principles. Over time, it’s clear who’s more reliable and who earns more respect. The second colleague’s actions are not random; they’re rooted in underlying principles.

So how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by identifying your core principles. What do you value most? Is it honesty, kindness, perseverance? Once you have those principles nailed down, use them as a filter for your actions. Before taking on a new task or making a decision, ask yourself: Does this align with my values? Will this action bring me closer to who I want to be? This approach ensures that your actions are meaningful and consistent with your beliefs.

Let me share a story to illustrate this. A friend of mine, Sarah, was always stressed out. She felt like she was constantly putting out fires at work and at home. After a particularly tough week, she decided she needed a change. She sat down and thought about what she truly valued. For her, it was family, health, and personal growth. She then started making decisions based on these values. She turned down extra work projects that would eat into family time. She committed to a regular exercise routine because it was important for her health. She set aside time each week for reading and learning new things. Sarah’s life didn’t become perfect overnight, but she felt more in control and more at peace because her actions were no longer random; they were based on her principles.

Think about your own life. Are there areas where you’re acting without direction? Take a moment to reflect on your values. Make a conscious effort to let those values guide your actions. It might take some practice, but over time, you’ll likely find that your life feels more coherent and purposeful. And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes along the way—what matters is that you’re striving for consistency in your principles and actions.