Epictetus advocates for building virtue and character through small, consistent actions rather than waiting for dramatic moments to prove ourselves. Character is developed through daily choices - how we respond to minor irritations, whether we keep small promises, how we treat people who can't help us. These small practices prepare us for larger challenges and opportunities. We can't expect to be courageous in a crisis if we haven't practiced courage in small situations; we can't expect to be patient with major problems if we lose our temper over minor inconveniences. Excellence is built through the accumulation of small choices, not through occasional grand gestures. Master the little things, and the big things take care of themselves.