Have you ever wondered how some people just seem to get instant respect?
I certainly have.
And I’ve discovered seven small Stoic habits that have significantly grown my respect among peers.
Ready to explore these game-changing Stoic habits?
They might just be the key to unlocking the respect you’ve been seeking.
Let’s get started.
1) Embracing adversity
One of the most influential Stoic habits I’ve adopted is embracing adversity.
Life is full of ups and downs, and often, we don’t have control over these external situations. But what we do have control over is our reaction to them.
This understanding is a core tenet of Stoicism and has been a game-changer in my interactions with others.
In “Meditations,” the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, a renowned Stoic philosopher, emphasizes the importance of using adversity as a tool for growth and self-improvement. This concept resonated deeply with me.
By adopting this habit, I’ve learned to view challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. This change in perspective has not only improved my resilience but also earned me respect from those around me.
It’s not an easy habit to cultivate, but its impact on how others perceive you is extraordinary.
2) Practicing mindfulness
The second Stoic habit that has significantly altered my life and the way people perceive me is practicing mindfulness.
Caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to get lost in the noise, losing sight of the present. But in Stoicism, I found a solution—mindfulness.
Epictetus, a famous Stoic philosopher, stressed on the importance of being aware and present in every moment. This idea struck a chord with me.
By making mindfulness a daily habit, I’ve learned to live in the present, appreciate the now, and let go of past regrets and future anxieties.
This change hasn’t just brought peace to my life; it’s also reflected in my interactions with others. People notice when you’re truly ‘with’ them in a conversation, fully engaged and attentive. This sense of presence commands respect.
Practicing mindfulness isn’t about ignoring your past or future. It’s about giving your undivided attention to the current moment and those you’re interacting with.
3) Embodying empathy
“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 Stoic philosophy, empathy is highly valued. The Stoics believed in understanding and sharing the feelings of others as a way to connect and build relationships.
I’ve found that by consciously practicing empathy in my daily interactions, I’ve been able to strengthen my relationships and earn the respect of those around me.
Whether it’s taking the time to listen to a friend’s problem or putting myself in a colleague’s shoes during a heated discussion, showing empathy has made a significant difference.
Empathy isn’t about agreeing with others all the time. It’s about understanding their perspectives and validating their feelings. This habit might require patience and practice, but it’s worth every effort.
When you embody empathy, people feel seen, heard, and valued. And that’s a surefire way to gain their respect.
4) Practicing moderation
Picture this: You’re at a lavish banquet with an array of culinary delights. While others indulge, you choose to enjoy the feast in moderation.
The Stoics valued moderation highly, viewing it as a virtue. They believed in enjoying life’s pleasures without overindulgence, maintaining a balance.
Inspired by their philosophy, I’ve learned to appreciate life’s offerings without excess. This practice has not only improved my health but also my relationships and overall well-being.
Practicing moderation doesn’t mean deprivation; it’s about balance. It shows self-control and wisdom, qualities that command respect.
Incorporating moderation into your lifestyle might require discipline, but its impact on your life and the respect you earn is remarkable. It’s a reminder that true satisfaction comes not from excess but balance.
5) Prioritizing wisdom
The ancient Stoics, like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, held wisdom in high regard. To them, wisdom was more than just an accumulation of knowledge—it was the ability to apply that knowledge appropriately in different situations.
But prioritizing wisdom isn’t just about learning; it’s also about sharing. I’ve found that sharing my insights and experiences with others not only enriches their lives but also fosters a sense of respect for me.
People value those who offer valuable insights and thoughtful advice. It’s a sign of experience and understanding—qualities that command respect.
6) Exercising self-discipline
The sixth Stoic habit that has earned me respect is exercising self-discipline.
The Stoics, like Epictetus and Seneca, often discussed the importance of self-discipline in leading a good life. They believed that by controlling our actions and reactions, we could rise above trivial annoyances and focus on what truly matters.
Taking their teachings to heart, I’ve made a conscious effort to exercise self-discipline in my daily life. Whether it’s sticking to my workout routine or maintaining calm in a heated discussion, self-discipline has been key.
This habit isn’t about curbing your desires but directing them towards constructive ends. When you display self-discipline, people can’t help but respect your commitment and determination.
7) Accepting what you cannot control
The final Stoic habit that has played a crucial role in earning respect is accepting what I cannot control.
The Stoics, particularly Epictetus, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between what we can control and what we can’t. They believed that peace comes from focusing our energy on the former and accepting the latter.
Inspired by this philosophy, I’ve learned to let go of things beyond my control. Whether it’s traffic on the way to work or a sudden change in weather, accepting these uncontrollable factors has brought a sense of calm to my life.
This acceptance doesn’t mean resignation; it means understanding where to exert your energy effectively. When you display this understanding, people respect your ability to maintain composure and focus on what truly matters.
The bottom line
Embrace these Stoic habits, and watch as they not only transform you, but also the way people respect and admire you. After all, respect is earned, not given—and these habits can be your path to earning it.
If you liked this post, you might also like to be part of our Stoic community. You can do so by joining our newsletter below.
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.
