What does it take to stay grounded and humble while reaching the top?
The ancient Stoics might have the answer. They believed that success, wealth, and external achievements aren’t the true markers of a person’s value—rather, it’s about self-mastery, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to personal virtues.
Today, we dive into five Stoic habits that successful men use to remain humble, even as their achievements grow. Do you practice any of these timeless habits yourself?
If not, you might want to start.
1. They remind themselves that wealth, like everything, is temporary
The first Stoic habit of successful, humble men is the understanding that wealth is fleeting. They never let financial success define their worth or become the focal point of their lives.
As Marcus Aurelius writes in Meditations, “All things are petty, easily changed, vanishing away”.
This deep awareness of impermanence helps them remain grounded, even as their success grows. These men recognize that wealth, like everything else, can disappear in an instant.
They see it for what it truly is— a tool, not a measure of character. By not clinging to material possessions or status, they free themselves from the anxiety that often accompanies the fear of loss.
2. They realize that true success comes from mastering ourselves
What does it mean to truly succeed? Is it about accumulating wealth, fame, or power? Or is it something deeper?
Well, the Stoics believed that real success isn’t found in external achievements but in mastering oneself.
Marcus Aurelius, the most powerful man in the world at the time, understood this deeply. In Meditations, he wrote, “Take heed not to be transformed into a Caesar, not to be dipped in the purple dye; for it does happen. Keep yourself, therefore, simple, good, pure, grave, unaffected, the friend of justice, religious, kind affectionate, strong for your proper work”.
Despite his vast power, Aurelius knew the real battle was within—against pride, ego, and the temptation to lose sight of his values.
Successful men who stay humble also understand this truth: mastering themselves is the key to lasting success. They continuously work on their character, staying grounded in virtues like justice, kindness, and self-discipline, no matter how high they climb.
3. They practice voluntary discomfort
For Stoics, deliberately exposing oneself to hardship is a key to strengthening mind and character.
Seneca captured this perfectly when he wrote, “Set aside a certain number of days, during which you shall be content with the scantiest and cheapest fare, with coarse and rough dress, saying to yourself all the while: ‘Is this the condition that I feared?’”.
By practicing voluntary discomfort—whether through fasting, minimal living, or pushing themselves physically—these men build resilience. They remind themselves that happiness doesn’t depend on luxury or ease, and that they can handle adversity when it comes.
This habit also keeps them grounded.
4. They focus on their own actions, not on what others think
How often do we let the opinions of others dictate our actions?
For successful men who embody Stoic principles, the approval of others is not their guide. Instead, they focus solely on their own actions and living according to their values.
Epictetus reminds us, “What disturbs men’s minds is not events but their judgments on events”. In other words, it’s not what happens to us that matters but how we choose to interpret and respond to it.
These men understand that seeking external validation is a trap. It leads to a life governed by the expectations and judgments of others, which can shift like the wind. Instead, they center themselves by focusing on what they can control—their own thoughts, actions, and character.
By doing so, they remain unaffected by praise or criticism. Their self-worth is defined by their own principles, not by public opinion. This clarity keeps them humble, even as their success draws attention from all corners.
Ultimately, they measure their success by how closely they align with their values, not by the applause of the crowd.
5. They take time to appreciate what they have
Last but not least, successful men who stay humble make it a habit to regularly reflect on their blessings.
In the fast-paced pursuit of success, it’s easy to overlook what’s already present. These men, however, make it a point to pause and appreciate their lives.
As Marcus Aurelius wrote, “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”.
Rather than focusing on what’s missing or chasing the next goal, they consciously practice gratitude. This habit not only deepens their sense of fulfillment but also keeps their ego in check, reminding them that success isn’t just about acquiring more, but about appreciating what’s already here.
The bottom Line
The most successful men understand that real achievement isn’t just about reaching the top, but about staying grounded and humble along the way.
By practicing these Stoic habits—recognizing the temporary nature of wealth, mastering themselves, focusing on their own actions, embracing discomfort, and appreciating what they have—they find lasting fulfillment and avoid being ruled by their ego.
Are you already practicing any of these habits? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
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.
