According to ancient writers, three maxims were carved into the stones of the forecourt to the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. “Nothing in Excess” and “Swear No Oaths” were the first two. The third was “Γνῶθι σεαυτόν” — “Gnôthi se autón”, or “Know Thyself”.

These maxims were the cornerstone of Greek philosophy, as expounded upon by Socrates (via his student, Plato). They were the foundations of the examined life. I’ve been examining my life, recently, s...