In our fast-paced world, making decisions that align with our values and goals can sometimes be a formidable challenge.
I mean, how often do we find ourselves at a crossroads, unsure of which path leads us toward our desired outcome? How often are even sure of our desired outcome?
This is where a philosophy born around 300 B.C in Athens can help us navigate through the modern world; Stoicism. Despite its ancient origins, Stoic principles are as relevant today as they were two millennia ago, providing us with the tools to make better decisions and lead a more fulfilling life.
Today, we’ll explore seven key Stoic principles that can significantly enhance your decision-making skills and ultimately improve your sense of self-control, resilience, and contentment.
Whether you’re making decisions about your personal life or professional career, these principles will guide you towards choices that are not just wise but also ethical and beneficial in the long run.
1) Understand what’s in your control
Ever caught yourself worrying about things like the weather, traffic jams, or the state of the economy?
Well, Stoicism has a reality check for us all: not everything is in our control. And obsessing over such things is a wasted effort.
As Epictetus tells us:
“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” (The Discourses of Epictetus ,1916)
When we think about it, the world is basically divided into two categories: things you can control and things you can’t.
The former includes your actions, thoughts, and reactions. The latter includes pretty much everything else – yes, even the likelihood of rain on your picnic day.
So here’s a question to ponder: Are you spending your energy on things within your control, or are you letting external factors dictate your decisions and peace of mind?
Learning to differentiate between the two can be a game-changer for your decision-making process. It empowers you to focus on what truly matters and let go of what doesn’t, thereby making your decisions more productive and less stressful.
2) Worry about what you think, not what others think
How often do we find ourselves making decisions based on what we think others will approve of rather than what we truly believe is best for us?
I used to be guilty of this; constantly trying to please others at the expense of my own beliefs and desires.
It’s a common trap, but Stoicism offers a potent reminder to shift our focus back to where it truly belongs—on our own opinions and values. Marcus Aurelius wrote:
“I often wonder how it is that everyone loves himself more than all the world and yet takes less account of his own judgement of himself than of the judgement of the world.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
This insight is as profound today as it was in ancient Rome.
So, why should we prioritize our own judgment over the opinions of others?
Well put simply, by focusing on your own thoughts and principles, you can make decisions that are more aligned with your true self, leading to greater satisfaction and peace of mind.
Stoicism teaches us to respect our own insights and judgments as the guiding force in our lives.
This doesn’t mean ignoring advice or feedback, but it does mean that the final decision should always resonate with your own values and beliefs.
3) Practice negative visualization
The Stoics were big on visualizing worst-case scenarios. It might sound pessimistic, but this strategy has a surprisingly positive effect.
By imagining the worst, we can prepare ourselves for adversity and appreciate what we currently have.
So, how does this relate to decision-making?
Well, by considering the worst-case outcomes of our decisions, we can better prepare for potential setbacks and reduce anxiety about the unknown.
This practice can also make you more grateful for your present situation, which in turn can lead to more contentment and less impulsivity in decision-making.
So, next time you’re faced with a choice, take a moment to visualize the worst-case scenario. It might just provide the clarity you need to make a well-informed decision.
4) Do the right thing
This principle is straightforward: always strive to be honest and maintain moral soundness in your decisions.
Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, emphasizes this with his words:
“Whatever anyone may do or say, I am bound to be good” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
At the core, we all have an inherent understanding of what is right and wrong. By tapping into this internal compass, you can guide your decisions in a direction that not only leads to better outcomes but also aligns with your true self.
Having integrity means consistently aligning your actions with your values and principles, regardless of the external pressures or potential gains from less honest paths. This approach not only ensures your peace of mind but also builds trust and respect among those around you.
In your decision-making process, ask yourself if your choice reflects who you truly are and if it upholds the values you stand for. Making decisions that mirror your ethical beliefs fortifies your character and enhances your ability to deal with complex situations more effectively.
Adhering to this principle ensures that your decisions are not just expedient, but genuinely reflective of your deepest convictions and aspirations.
5) Practice objectivity
Ever bought something on impulse, only to regret it later? Or ever made a hasty decision in the heat of the moment that you wished you could undo?
We’ve all been there. In fact, I remember this one time when I was so frustrated with my slow laptop that I decided to buy a new one on a whim.
A few weeks later, I discovered that all my old laptop needed was a simple upgrade. Had I taken a moment to look at the situation objectively, I could have saved myself a lot of money.
This brings us to our next Stoic principle: objectivity.
The Stoics believed in seeing things as they are, not as we’d like them to be. They advocated for removing our personal biases and emotional responses from the decision-making process.
Here’s what Marcus Aurelius had to say:
“See facts as they really are, distinguishing their matter, cause, relation.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Practicing objectivity allows us to make more rational and informed decisions. It helps us to step back, assess the situation logically, and choose the best course of action based on facts rather than emotions.
Next time you’re faced with a decision, try taking a step back and viewing the situation from an objective standpoint. You might be surprised by what you discover.
6) Be open-minded
Stoicism urges caution against the arrogance of believing that we already have all the answers. This openness enhances our ability to make informed decisions.
Think of a time when you were certain about your stance on an issue, only to discover later that additional information changed your perspective. Ring a bell?
This realization is a testament to the importance of remaining teachable, regardless of our experience or expertise.
Applying this principle involves actively seeking out new knowledge and being willing to reconsider our previous conclusions in light of new evidence. It means asking questions, engaging in meaningful conversations, and being curious about alternate viewpoints.
In practice, this could look like conducting thorough research before making a decision, seeking the advice of experts, or simply admitting when we don’t have all the answers and need more time to understand fully.
7) Consider the effects on those around you
This principle urges us to extend our decision-making process beyond personal gain or immediate satisfaction to consider the broader consequences of our actions on the community and environment.
As Marcus Aurelius observed:
“What does not benefit the hive is not benefit to the bee.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
This highlights the importance of responsibility in our choices, reminding us that our well-being is intrinsically linked to the well-being of others.
In practical terms, this means thinking about how your decisions will affect your family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers.
For instance, consider a business decision that might lead to short-term profits but could harm the environment or exploit workers.
Applying this Stoic principle would steer you towards more sustainable and ethical choices.
Moreover, this perspective fosters a sense of community and shared destiny. It encourages us to act not just as isolated individuals but as members of a larger network, where each person’s actions contribute to the collective health and success.
When you next face a decision, take a moment to reflect on the ripple effects your choice might create. Ask yourself: Does this decision benefit only me, or does it also contribute to the greater good?
By incorporating this level of consideration into your decision-making, you align your actions with the broader needs of your community, leading to more harmonious outcomes.
The bottom line
The wisdom of Stoicism, rooted in rationality and virtue, offers valuable insights that can significantly enhance our decision-making skills.
From understanding what’s in our control to thinking about the greater good, these Stoic principles serve as a guide to making balanced, ethical, and beneficial decisions in our everyday lives.
Of course, mastering these principles takes practice. So don’t be hard on yourself if you stumble along the way.
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.
