Success is often measured by material wealth and status. But what if I told you Stoicism, an ancient philosophy, has a completely different take on success?
Stoicism defines success not by what you have but by who you are as a person. It’s about your character, your actions, and your reactions to life’s ups and downs.
In this article, we’ll explore five signs that you’re a successful person according to Stoicism.
Prepare to challenge your understanding of success and maybe, just maybe, see yourself in a whole new light.
1) You accept life as it is
According to Stoicism, acceptance is a key sign of a successful person.
Life isn’t always smooth sailing. There are ups and downs, and things often don’t go the way we planned. But how you react to these setbacks is what defines your success.
The Stoics believed in accepting life as it is, rather than how we want it to be. They saw obstacles not as barriers, but as opportunities for growth.
If you’re the type of person who can take life’s punches on the chin and keep moving forward, this is a sign that you’re successful in the Stoic sense. It’s not about never falling down, but about getting back up every time you do.
It’s not about what happens to you, but how you respond to what happens to you. That’s the Stoic way. And that’s a sign of true success.
2) You choose empathy over judgment
Marcus Aurelius, a Stoic philosopher and Roman Emperor, emphasized this principle with his wisdom: “Habituate yourself not to be attentive to what another has to say, and so far as possible be in the mind of the speaker.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
This quote encapsulates the Stoic practice of deeply understanding others, looking beyond their words to grasp their intentions, feelings, and perspectives.
Choosing empathy means putting yourself in someone else’s shoes before jumping to conclusions. It’s about understanding their struggles, motivations, and emotions without immediately casting judgment. This approach not only fosters stronger relationships but also creates an environment where open, honest communication can flourish.
Consider a scenario where a colleague misses a deadline. A judgmental response might involve assuming they are lazy or incompetent. However, an empathetic approach would involve considering external factors that might have impacted their performance, such as personal issues or overwhelming workload. By engaging in a compassionate conversation to understand their situation, you demonstrate respect and support, fostering a more collaborative and trusting work environment.
In essence, choosing empathy over judgment not only benefits others but also cultivates inner peace and resilience. By understanding and embracing this Stoic principle, you embody a key trait of a truly successful person—one who values connection, understanding, and compassion above all else.
3) You give without expecting in return
One often overlooked teaching of the Stoics is selfless giving.
Perhaps, Marcus Aurelius said it best:
“One kind of man, when he does a good turn to someone, is forward also to set down the favour to his account. Another is not forward to this, but still within himself, he thinks as though he were a creditor and is conscious of what he has done. A third in a sense not even conscious of what he has done, but he is like a vine which has borne grapes, and asks nothing more when it has borne its appropriate fruit… You ought to be one of these who in a way are not aware of what they do.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
In simpler terms, real success isn’t about seeking recognition. It’s about helping others just because it’s the right thing to do. Think about assisting a coworker without expecting a thank you or future favor. This kind of generosity builds a positive, supportive environment.
True fulfillment comes from the act of giving itself. This is what Stoicism is all about—virtue being its own reward. In a world obsessed with quid pro quo, being genuinely selfless sets you apart. It shows your actions are driven by values, not the need for validation.
Ultimately, it means valuing kindness and generosity for their own sake, contributing to the greater good, and living a life of integrity and virtue.
4) You focus on what you can control
Stoicism teaches that a successful person concentrates on what they can control and lets go of what they cannot. This principle is rooted in the Stoic belief that our mental peace and happiness depend on focusing our efforts on what we can change while accepting what we cannot.
The Stoic philosopher Epictetus famously said, “External things are not in my power, my will is my own. Where am I to seek what is good and what is evil? Within me.”
This mindset helps to eliminate unnecessary stress and anxiety, as it shifts the focus away from external events and onto our internal responses. It’s not about being passive or indifferent; rather, it’s about directing your energy towards actions that are within your power.
Take, for instance, a situation where a project at work doesn’t go as planned. Instead of fretting over the uncontrollable factors that contributed to the project’s failure, a Stoic would analyze their own actions and responses, learn from the experience, and apply those lessons to future endeavors. This approach not only fosters personal growth but also enhances resilience and adaptability.
If you consistently find yourself prioritizing what you can influence and accepting what you cannot, you’re embodying a key tenet of Stoicism. This mindset not only reduces stress but also increases effectiveness, making you more successful in navigating life’s challenges.
5) You strive for the greater good
The Stoics believed that individual fulfillment and societal harmony are inextricably linked, and a successful person is one who contributes positively to the community.
This collective approach to life is encapsulated in Marcus Aurelius’s wisdom: “We are all working together to a single end.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Striving for the greater good means looking beyond personal gain and considering how your actions impact others. It involves making decisions that benefit not only yourself but also the people around you. This perspective fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, as you recognize that your success is part of a larger, collective effort.
Take, for example, a workplace scenario where you have the opportunity to take credit for a project that was a team effort. Choosing to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of your colleagues not only builds trust and morale but also exemplifies the Stoic principle of working towards a common goal. This selflessness and integrity can inspire others to adopt a similar mindset, creating a more cooperative and productive environment.
On a broader scale, this might involve participating in community service, advocating for social justice, or supporting initiatives that aim to improve the lives of others. Whether through volunteer work, charitable donations, or simply being a supportive friend or neighbor, these actions contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society.
The Stoic approach to success emphasizes the importance of virtue and moral excellence. By striving for the greater good, you align yourself with these values, demonstrating that success is not merely about personal achievements but about making a positive impact on the world. This perspective shifts the focus from self-centered ambitions to a more holistic view of success, where personal growth and societal progress go hand in hand.
Final thoughts: A Stoic measure of success
The beauty of Stoicism lies in its simplicity and its profound understanding of human nature.
It teaches us that success isn’t about wealth, fame, or power. It’s about character, virtue, and the way we navigate the world around us.
So as you go about your day, remember these Stoic signs of success. Reflect on them. Strive for them. Let them guide your actions and decisions. And who knows?
You might find that you’re more successful than you ever thought possible – not according to the world’s standards perhaps, but according to the timeless wisdom of Stoicism.
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Until next time, stay Stoic.
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.
