Seneca, a Stoic philosopher, advised that to govern is to serve the people rather than rule over them. The passage encourages focusing on giving to and helping others through service rather than seeking power or personal gain. It suggests replacing feelings of obligation with gratitude for the opportunity to support one's employees, family, team, and community.

1. "To govern was to serve, not to rule"
-Seneca
Seneca was one of the daddies of Stoicism.
What a lovely little bit of advice this is, and relevant given the political
comings and goings of this year.
Service, not power.
Giving, not taking.
It's a lovely shift in perspectve.
Not, "What can I get today?" Instead, "What can I give today?"
Not, "I can't believe I have to sort this out for my team again!" Instead, "I
get to help my team again."
Not, "How much more value can I squeeze out of my employees?" Instead,
"how can I serve my employees to empower them to be better?"
Not, "It's such a chore to do this and that for my ageing parents." Instead,
"I'm very fortunate to be able to help those that brought me into the world."
It reminds me of something my mentor said to me years ago, way before I'd
read Seneca:
"Joe, remember this, the fortunate should serve."
Remove the weight of "I have to", and replace it with the empowering "I get
to."
So what are you going to be today to be of service?