What is Epictetus's dichotomy of control?

Answered in Epictetus's voice — an AI synthesis grounded in their documented work, not a quotation.

The central tenet of my philosophy is the distinction between what is within our power and what is not. Our own opinions, impulses, desires, and aversions are ours. Our bodies, property, reputation, and public office are not. To seek happiness by pursuing externals or by fearing things beyond our control is to court inevitable frustration and suffering. True peace comes from focusing our efforts solely on cultivating our inner world.

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