We often tend to dismiss our own accomplishments and underestimate our worth. But what if I told you there’s an ancient philosophy that could help you recognize your own awesomeness?
There is.
Stoicism, with its emphasis on virtue and character, might just have the tools to help you see the greatness within you.
Today, I’m going to share five signs that you’re a good person, according to Stoicism. Are you ready to discover your inner stoic rockstar?
Let’s dive in.
01 You are self-aware
In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to lose sight of who we truly are. But knowing yourself, your strengths and weaknesses, your passions and fears, is a sign of a truly considered person.
This was a lesson I learned from the Stoics themselves.
Inspired by Marcus Aurelius, who encourages us to “Retreat into” ourselves, I started taking time each day to self-reflect.
This was not always an easy process; it meant confronting my fears and insecurities, acknowledging my mistakes and failures. But it also meant recognizing my strengths and celebrating my victories, no matter how small.
This daily practice of self-awareness was not just enlightening; it was empowering. It helped me understand myself better, made me more resilient in the face of adversity, and ultimately, made me feel more awesome.
If you are already practicing self-awareness, kudos to you. If not, here’s how you can get started:
- Set aside quiet time: Dedicate some time each day for self-reflection. Whether it’s first thing in the morning or last thing at night, make it a priority.
- Ask yourself tough questions: What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses? What makes me happy? What scares me? Be honest with yourself.
- Keep a journal: Write down your thoughts and feelings. This can help you track your progress and patterns over time.
- Be patient with yourself: Self-awareness is not something that happens overnight. It takes time and patience.
02 You are humble
“It is impossible for a person to begin to learn what he thinks he already knows.” – Epictetus
Humility is a cornerstone of Stoic philosophy and an essential trait of a good person. The Stoics understood that true wisdom comes from recognizing our limitations and remaining open to learning.
When we approach life with humility, we acknowledge that we don’t have all the answers, and this openness allows us to grow and improve continually.
It’s not about self-deprecation or denying your achievements. Instead, it’s about understanding that your knowledge and skills are always evolving. This perspective encourages a mindset of lifelong learning and self-improvement.
By practicing humility, you can build stronger relationships, as it fosters respect and genuine connection with others. People are more likely to trust and collaborate with someone who listens and values their input rather than someone who always insists on being right.
03 You practice kindness and empathy
“Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness.” – Seneca
Being kind and empathetic is another trait that the Stoics valued highly. They believed that we are all part of the same human family and that we have a duty to care for one another.
I’ll never forget when I started putting this into practice in my own life.
I used to be quite impatient with others, especially those who didn’t meet my expectations or see things my way. But after reading Seneca’s words, “Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness,” I knew I needed to change.
So, I decided to make a conscious effort to be more understanding and compassionate toward others. I started small—holding the door open for someone, giving up my seat on the bus, or just lending a listening ear to a friend in need.
Slowly but surely, I started noticing a change. Not only did people respond positively to my kindness, but I also felt better about myself. It’s amazing how a simple act of kindness can light up someone’s day and your own.
Now, I try to find an opportunity for kindness each day. It’s not always easy, especially when dealing with difficult people, but remembering the Stoic principle of empathy keeps me grounded.
04 You embrace adversity
“No prizefighter can go with high spirits into the strife if he has never been beaten black and blue; the only contestant who can confidently enter the lists is the man who has seen his own blood, who has felt his teeth rattle beneath his opponent’s fist, who has been tripped and felt the full force of his adversary’s charge, who has been downed in body but not in spirit, one who, as often as he falls, rises again with greater defiance than ever..” – Seneca (Moral letters to Lucilius/Letter 13)
The Stoics were big believers in the power of resilience. They saw adversity not as a setback, but as an opportunity to grow and strengthen one’s character.
I remember when I landed my first job, fresh out of college, full of enthusiasm, and eager to prove myself. But within a few months, I was let go due to budget cuts. I was devastated and felt like a complete failure.
Later, Stoicism made me realize that our challenges don’t define us; it’s how we respond to them that truly matters.
So, now, instead of wallowing in self-pity, I pick myself up and use such experiences as stepping stones.
That’s the power of resilience. It’s not about never falling; it’s about always getting back up.
If you can handle life’s ups and downs with grace and resilience, you’re not just an ordinary person; you’re an awesome one.
05 You do the right thing, even when it’s hard
“Whatever anyone may do or say, I am bound to be good.” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Living with integrity means aligning your actions with your values and principles. For the Stoics, this was non-negotiable. Integrity involves being honest, ethical, and consistent in all aspects of your life. It’s about doing the right thing even when no one is watching, and maintaining your moral compass regardless of external pressures or temptations.
Integrity builds trust and respect from others, which are crucial for meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life. When people know that you stand by your word and values, they are more likely to respect and rely on you.
Final thoughts
These five signs of Stoic awesomeness can be a transformative lens through which to view yourself. If you relate to these, you might be more awesome than you think.
But don’t be disheartened if you don’t embody all these signs right away.
Stoicism (and life) isn’t about being perfect, but about striving to be the best version of ourselves. So, keep learning, keep growing.
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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.
