I do a very strict diet.

"I do a very strict diet." These words, spoken by Jorge Masvidal, encapsulate the profound wisdom of self-discipline and the power of intentional living. A strict diet, for Masvidal, is not merely a temporary measure or passing trend, but a profound act of commitment to his body, his craft, and his long-term goals. It speaks to the truth that success—whether in sport, life, or spirit—requires constant effort, sacrifice, and a dedication to one's higher purpose. Masvidal’s choice to live in alignment with his goals through a strict diet offers a timeless lesson: that in order to achieve true greatness, we must be willing to discipline ourselves and make choices that nourish both body and mind.

In the ancient world, the great philosophers, warriors, and athletes understood that the path to strength, excellence, and clarity was paved with discipline. Socrates, the father of Western philosophy, often spoke of the importance of self-control and the cultivation of virtue through intentional actions. He believed that discipline was key to the pursuit of wisdom—and in the same way, Masvidal’s strict diet is part of his own pursuit of excellence. Just as Socrates emphasized the mastery of one’s desires, Masvidal’s strict diet becomes a form of mastery over the body, choosing what to fuel it with and ensuring that the body is prepared for the challenges ahead.

The ancient Greeks, too, understood the crucial role that diet played in the cultivation of strength and vitality. The Olympic athletes, who competed in the most rigorous of contests, adhered to a diet that was simple and focused on building muscle, stamina, and endurance. They did not seek excess or indulgence, but instead nourished their bodies with foods that supported their athletic endeavors. Like the ancient athletes, Masvidal understands that his success depends on the quality of what he consumes, and that a strict diet—free from distractions and indulgences—is the key to building the strength he needs to succeed in the octagon. This commitment to discipline mirrors the ancient understanding that the path to true power lies not in indulgence, but in purposeful nourishment.

The legendary Spartan warriors provide another example of how strict discipline in diet was tied to achieving greatness. The Spartans were known for their unyielding commitment to strength and resilience—both on the battlefield and in their daily lives. Their diet was carefully controlled to provide sustenance that would enhance their performance and physical endurance. Just as Masvidal follows a strict diet to optimize his physical performance, the Spartans understood that the body must be meticulously cared for to be at its best when called upon for battle. Their daily regimen—both in training and in diet—was a reflection of their commitment to discipline and strength, values that Masvidal embraces in his own journey toward excellence.

To live a life of discipline and excellence, one must be willing to embrace the hardships that come with it. Marcus Aurelius, the Stoic philosopher and Roman Emperor, lived his life in adherence to the principle that virtue and strength arise from difficult choices. His philosophy teaches us that the path of discipline is not easy, but it is the only path that leads to true growth. For Masvidal, his strict diet is a form of self-mastery, where he chooses not only what to eat, but what to eliminate, in pursuit of his highest potential. The Stoics understood that without sacrifice and self-control, we cannot reach the heights of success. Similarly, Masvidal’s strict diet is his way of walking this ancient path—a path that leads to strength, clarity, and ultimately, victory.

The lesson here is one of self-mastery. Masvidal’s commitment to a strict diet teaches us that true success is not about comfort or indulgence, but about doing what is necessary to align the body and mind with the demands of our goals. Whether we seek to achieve greatness in the arena of sport, work, or life, we must recognize that the path to greatness is marked by discipline, sacrifice, and the willingness to endure discomfort in order to build lasting strength and resilience. This is the lesson the ancients taught us: that greatness is earned through the choices we make, especially the difficult ones that require focus and dedication.

In practical terms, Masvidal’s diet offers us a challenge: to reflect on our own habits and choices. Are we, like the ancients, living with discipline, choosing the foods, habits, and actions that support our long-term well-being? Are we willing to make sacrifices today in order to achieve something greater tomorrow? The path to health, strength, and success lies in the ability to make intentional, disciplined choices every day, just as Masvidal has done with his strict diet. Let us learn from his example and the wisdom of the ancients, choosing the path of discipline, balance, and self-mastery in all that we do.

Thus, let us take Jorge Masvidal’s words and the wisdom of the ancients to heart. Let us choose to live with purpose, knowing that the path to true strength and success requires a life of discipline and self-control. Whether in our diet, our work, or our personal lives, let us commit to the principle of self-mastery, choosing what is best for our bodies, our minds, and our spirits. In doing so, we will build a life of lasting health, clarity, and vitality, just as the great philosophers, warriors, and athletes did in their time.