In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be easy to lose sight of what truly matters.
We are often driven by societal expectations to be strong, successful, and ruthless – but what does it really mean to live a good life?
Stoicism, an ancient philosophy that originated in Greece, offers a roadmap for living a life of virtue, happiness, and peace. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of character and moral virtue as the highest good. But how do you know if you’re on the right path?
Well, here are ten signs that you are.
1) You practice self-control
“it is in the soul’s power to preserve its own quiet and calm, and not to judge pain to be an evil; for every judgement, impulse, desire, or aversion is within, and nothing evil makes its way up to this.” Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
How often do you find yourself reacting impulsively to situations, only to regret it later?
In the stoic philosophy, self-control is a key virtue.
If you’re able to manage your emotions, desires, and actions in a balanced way and don’t let external circumstances dictate your reactions, it’s a clear sign you’re living a virtuous life, according to Stoicism.
It’s all about remaining calm in the storm.
2) You value wisdom over physical possessions
Remember that time when you had a choice between buying the latest iPhone or attending a personal development seminar, and you chose the latter?
That’s Stoicism in action.
If you find yourself constantly seeking knowledge and personal growth rather than the latest gadgets or trends, congratulations, you’re embodying a key tenet of Stoicism.
The more you embrace knowledge and understanding, the more virtuous your life becomes.
3) You focus on what you can control
“Of all existing things some are in our power, and others are not in our power. In our power are thought, impulse, will to get and will to avoid, and, in a word, everything which is our own doing. Things not in our power include the body, property, reputation, office, and, in a word, everything which is not our own doing.” – Epictetus (The Discourses of Epictetus 1916)
The Stoics divide the world into two categories: things you can control and things you can’t.
Do you focus more on your own actions, attitudes, and beliefs—things within your control—rather than fretting over external circumstances? If so, you’re leading a life in line with Stoic virtues.
4) You remain calm amidst adversity
Picture this: You’re stuck in a traffic jam, late for an important meeting. Horns are blaring, tempers flaring, and all you can do is sit there, unable to change the situation.
If your first instinct is to stay calm and composed instead of allowing frustration to consume you, you’re embodying the Stoic virtue of tranquility. Stoicism teaches us to maintain our inner peace, regardless of external circumstances.
Adversity is unavoidable in life, but we can control our reactions to it.
So, think about it: How do you react when life throws a curveball your way?
5) You practice gratitude regularly
“Do not think of what are absent as though they were not existing, but ponder on the most fortunate of what you have got, and on account of them remind yourself how they would have been missed, if they had not been here.” Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Gratitude is a fundamental component of this philosophy.
Stoics believed in appreciating what they had, instead of longing for what they didn’t.
If you find yourself regularly acknowledging and appreciating the good things in your life, you’re living in line with Stoic principles.
6) You understand the impermanence of life
“We ought to take into account not only the fact that day by day life is being spent and a small balance remaining” Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Life is fleeting, and the Stoics remind us that nothing lasts forever.
If you often reflect on the transient nature of life and prioritize meaningful actions and relationships, you’re embracing a crucial Stoic principle. Recognizing that our time is limited encourages us to live fully in the present, cherish our loved ones, and make the most of every moment.
Understanding the impermanence of life helps you maintain perspective, reduce unnecessary worries, and appreciate the present without being overly attached to material possessions or outcomes.
07 You don’t compare yourself to others
“How great a rest from labour he gains who does not look to what his neighbour says or does or thinks but only what himself is doing.” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in comparisons, constantly measuring our lives against others. However, if you’ve embraced the Stoic philosophy, you’ll find that you’re more focused on your own journey rather than others’.
Stoicism teaches us that true contentment comes from within, not from external validation or competition. By focusing on your own path and progress, you conserve energy and maintain peace of mind, free from the anxieties of comparison.
This inward focus allows you to cultivate your virtues and live a more authentic and fulfilling life, unburdened by the expectations or opinions of others.
08) You express empathy towards others
“Habituate yourself not to be attentive to what another has to say, and so far as possible be in the mind of the speaker”- Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
In a world where you can be anything, being kind and understanding towards others is a choice that aligns with the Stoic way of life.
Stoics believed in the brotherhood of humanity and valued empathy and kindness. They understood that everyone is fighting their own battles, and hence, they aimed to approach others with understanding and compassion.
If you find yourself naturally empathizing with others, lending a helping hand when needed, and treating everyone with respect and kindness, then you are living a life in line with Stoic virtues.
09) You think of the greater good
“What does not benefit the hive is no benefit to the bee.” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Stoicism emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity and the importance of contributing to the greater good.
By thinking beyond your personal gain and focusing on the welfare of others, you align yourself with the Stoic virtue of justice. This mindset encourages you to act with integrity, empathy, and compassion, recognizing that your well-being is intertwined with that of those around you.
In a world that often prioritizes individual success, placing value on the collective good demonstrates a profound understanding of Stoic teachings. It leads to a more harmonious and fulfilling life, where your actions contribute positively to society and fosters a sense of unity and purpose.
10) You live authentically
At the heart of Stoic philosophy is the idea of authenticity – living true to your values and not being swayed by societal pressures or expectations. Stoics believed in understanding and accepting oneself, flaws and all, and living a life that is true to who you are.
Do you find yourself consistently making choices that align with your values, refusing to compromise your principles for the sake of fitting in? Yes?
Then, you’re probably living an authentic life in line with Stoic virtues.
The bottom line
Living a virtuous life, according to Stoicism, is about striving to be the best version of yourself, focusing on what’s within your control, and treating others with kindness and understanding.
We’d love to hear about your own experiences with these Stoic principles. Do you see these virtues reflected in your life? How have they shaped your experiences? Feel free to share your thoughts and stories in the comments.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
