(2 minute read)
Stoic philosophy offers valuable lessons for navigating life, emphasising self-control, virtue, and acceptance of what we cannot control, focusing on what we can, and finding meaning in adversity.
The key ‘founding’ philosophers are the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the playwright and political advisor Seneca and the slave Epictetus, who later became a teacher. Their writings and teaching form the foundation of Stoicism.
Widely regarded as the single most important document supporting the stoic values is ‘Meditations’ by Marcus Aurelius, a collation of his private diaries written around 170 AD/CE.
Key lessons from Stoicism we can still practise today:
- Focus on what you can control: Stoics believe that true happiness comes from focusing on your thoughts, actions, and judgments, rather than external events.
- Embrace virtue: Strive for wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance in all your actions.
- Acceptance of fate: Stoics encourage acceptance of what is beyond your control, including death, and to find meaning in all experiences.
- Practice mindfulness and self-awareness: Pay attention to your thoughts and emotions and manage your reactions to external events.
- Appreciate what you have: Cultivate gratitude for the present moment and the things you have, rather than constantly desiring more.
- Treat every problem as an opportunity: View challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
- Be resilient: Develop the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity.
- Practice self-discipline: Develop the ability to control your impulses and act in accordance with your values.
- Find a mentor: Seek guidance from someone you admire and learn from their wisdom
Stoic philosophy has as much relevance today, as it did almost 2000 years ago.
Finding meaning, peace, and gratitude today is as important as ever – and we have the Stoics to thank for that.