Cincinnatus was dictator of Rome

He had everything you could ask for:

- Fame
- Fortune
- Total power

But at the height of his career…

HE GAVE IT ALL UP

Here’s why he traded an empire for a farm, and what his story teaches you about living the good life:

Context

Rome was in CRISIS

They were at war with the Aequians, but their army was trapped after the Battle of Tusculum, needing rescue...

Rome needed a hero fast

Their solution:

Make Cincinnatus dictator

Answer Destiny's Call

Senators found Cincinnatus plowing his land, and begged him:

Be dictator and save us!

He dropped his plow on the spot, abandoned his farm, and left for Rome...

Following your destiny takes sacrifice:

When it calls, abandon everything to answer it

Focus, focus, focus

Cincinnatus had one goal – DESTROY the rebellion:

- He suspended ALL business activity

- Recruited EVERY able bodied man

- Marched DIRECTLY to Tusculum

He crushed the Aequians in 2 weeks

Extraordinary results need extraordinary focus

Love Duty, Fear Power

After his victory, Rome held a city-wide celebration honoring Cincinnatus

In response, he gave up his throne:

His job was done - power would corrupt him, but the peace of his farm would protect him...

Greatness is not lust of power, but love of duty

Enlightened Poverty

Poverty built Cincinnatus' love of virtue

Per Charles Rollin:

Poverty was not universally practiced, but it was esteemed… [Cincinnatus shows] what greatness of soul inhabited a poor wretched cottage

Hard times build sharp minds

Embrace life's struggles

Labor with Love

Cincinnatus’ farm was small

It didn't give him wealth, glory, nor prestige... but it provided for his family and gave his life meaning

The lesson:

Dignified labor and a loving family is worth more than an empire

If you desire true wealth, seek labor and love

A Humble Legacy

Not only did Cincinnatus save an empire

He inspired one too

George Washington gave up the US presidency, citing Cincinnatus as his inspiration

In other words - Cincinnatus' one act of humility forged an empire

Humility is the ultimate legacy

Conclusion

Cincinnatus embodied greatness of soul:

- humble

- neighborly love

- self-sacrificing man

He lived a life of glory, because he loved virtue more than glory

Thus, if you wish to be a greater leader, seek to be a great servant

Humble yourself to be exalted