5 reasons Stoics thrive in times of uncertainty (and how you can too)

The COVID-19 pandemic showed how quickly the world can change, affecting every aspect of life from health to economy, but the unpredictability isn’t over yet; it never is. 

Some reports suggest that 400-800 million people will lose their jobs to AI. Will you keep yours?

Climate change continues to disrupt global weather patterns, creating economic and environmental instability.

Political unrest and economic fluctuations impact countries worldwide, leading to unpredictable futures.

The World Economic Forum ranked “Resilience, flexibility, and agility” as one of the most important skills for workers in its Future of Jobs Report 2023

The point?

Uncertainty is inevitable.

Thriving amidst it is a skill that we all need. It’s also a skill many Stoics have perfected.

Today, we explore some reasons why Stoics excel in uncertain times and how you can adopt their mindset to turn unpredictability into a personal strength. 

Let’s get to it.

1) Embracing uncertainty

“Nature loves nothing so much as to change what it is and to create new things in their likeness” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)

In a world where unpredictability is the only certainty, most people scramble to create a sense of order. But Stoics? They do the opposite. They lean into the chaos.

You see, Stoicism teaches that we can’t control everything, especially not the future or the unknown. But what we can control is how we react to it.

Instead of wasting energy worrying about what might happen, Stoics focus on responding in the best possible way, whatever the circumstance may be.

This unique perspective allows Stoics not only to survive but to thrive in times of uncertainty.

It’s not about denying fear or anxiety, but acknowledging these feelings and using them as a catalyst for growth and resilience.

2) Finding peace within

Let me share a little something from my own life.

A few years back, I was hit with a significant career setback. It was a challenging time, filled with uncertainty and self-doubt.

But that’s when I stumbled upon the teachings of Stoicism, and it completely changed my approach.

Stoics believe that true happiness is found within, not in external circumstances. This idea struck a chord with me.

I started focusing less on my external situation, and more on my internal peace. I began to understand that my career setback was an external event I had no control over, but how I responded to it was entirely up to me.

By finding peace within, I was able to navigate through the uncertainty, not just surviving but thriving.

This Stoic principle can be a game-changer for anyone facing uncertainty. By shifting your focus inward and finding peace within yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.

3) The power of perception

Ever heard of the saying, “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters”?

Well, it’s inherently a Stoic mindset. As Marcus Aurelius wrote: 

“Get rid of the judgement; you are afraid of the ‘I am hurt’; get of the ‘I am hurt’, you are rid of the hurt itself.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)

Stoics firmly believe that our perception of events, not the events themselves, determines our experience. It’s about understanding that we are the ones who assign meaning and value to things.

Take Marcus Aurelius, one of the most famous Stoic philosophers and Roman Emperor. He once wrote, “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

This perspective allows Stoics to remain unfazed by external circumstances, even during uncertain times. They understand that their power lies in how they perceive and respond to situations.

By adopting this ways of thinking, we too can reduce our stress and anxiety during challenging times, simply by adjusting our perception.

4) Living in the present

Another hallmark of Stoicism is living fully in the present moment.

In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to get lost in anxious thoughts about the future or regrets about the past. But Stoics understand that the present moment is all we truly have control over.

They practice mindfulness, being fully engaged and present in each moment. This approach helps them to remain calm and focused, even when life is full of unknowns.

The future hasn’t happened yet, and the past is already gone. The only time we can truly impact is right now.

5) The practice of negative visualization

At first glance, negative visualization might sound pessimistic, but it’s actually a powerful Stoic tool for dealing with uncertainty.

Stoics regularly imagine worst-case scenarios, not to dwell on them, but to prepare themselves mentally. By doing this, they reduce the shock and anxiety that comes with unexpected events.

This practice can help us become more resilient in the face of adversity and uncertainty. By contemplating the worst, we can better appreciate what we have and prepare ourselves for any situation. 

Final thoughts: Embracing the Stoic way

Stoicism isn’t just an ancient philosophy—it’s a practical toolkit for thriving in the face of uncertainty.

At its core, Stoicism teaches us to focus on what is within our control and let go of what isn’t. It reminds us to live in the present, to find peace within, and to view challenges as opportunities for growth.

These aren’t just abstract ideas—they’re strategies employed by, arguably, some of the greatest minds in history, from Marcus Aurelius to Seneca.

As we navigate the uncertainties of life, may we all find strength in their wisdom and courage in their example. Carry with you the resilience of a Stoic. As Seneca once said, “A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without trials.”

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.

Check it out here.

 

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