7 things Stoic people simply don’t complain about

Ever pondered what makes stoic people so unflappable?

I certainly have.

In my quest to uncover the secrets of the Stoic unwavering calm, I’ve learned a thing or two.

As far as I can see, Stoic people simply don’t complain about these seven things.

Are you ready to discover them?

Let’s get started.

1) Uncontrollable circumstances

One of the key tenets I’ve learned from stoic philosophy is the acceptance of things beyond our control.

Life is unpredictable, and often, circumstances arise that are completely out of our hands. While many may be quick to complain and despair, stoic individuals take a different approach.

Stoic individuals understand that it’s not the uncontrollable circumstances themselves that cause distress. Rather, it’s our perspective towards these events that dictate our emotional response.

In adopting this approach myself, I’ve noticed a shift in my reaction to uncontrollable situations. Rather than complaining or getting worked up over things I can’t change, I’ve learned to accept them and focus on what I can control – my response.

This acceptance gives birth to peace of mind, knowing that no matter what happens, we have the power to choose our reaction.

It’s not about being indifferent or passive, but about understanding where our control truly lies. And in doing so, achieving a sense of calm amidst life’s inevitable storms.

This mindset may seem challenging to adopt initially, but it brings an invaluable sense of tranquillity once embraced.

2) The behavior of others

Another area where stoic individuals shine is their approach to dealing with the behavior of others.

Let’s face it – people can be unpredictable, and their actions can sometimes be disappointing, frustrating, or even hurtful. However, stoic individuals grasp a simple truth – we can’t control the actions of others.

Instead of complaining about the actions of others, Stoics focus on their own responses and actions. They understand that while they can’t control how others behave, they have complete control over their own reactions.

3) Past mistakes

Psychological research suggests that ruminating on past mistakes can lead to increased anxiety. Stoic individuals, however, have a unique take on this.

Stoics are not immune to making mistakes. Like all of us, they stumble and falter. But what sets them apart is their refusal to dwell on these missteps.

They understand that the past is unchangeable and that complaining about past errors serves no purpose. Instead, they focus their energy on learning from these mistakes and applying those lessons to the present and future.

This stoic approach to dealing with past mistakes has helped me significantly. Instead of dwelling on past errors, I now see them as valuable lessons. It’s not about forgetting the past, but about reframing it as a learning experience.

4) Public opinion

Navigating the court of public opinion can be tricky. It’s easy to get swayed by others’ views and lose sight of our own beliefs and values.

Stoic individuals, however, seem to have a knack for steering clear of this pitfall.

Stoics understand that public opinion is fickle and beyond their control. They realize that trying to please everyone is a futile endeavor and that complaints about criticism or disapproval from others are simply a waste of energy.

In the words of the stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius, “I often wonder how it is that every one 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.” Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)

This stoic approach has been a game-changer for me. Instead of worrying about what others think, I now focus on living authentically and in alignment with my values.

By not complaining about public opinion, I’ve found an inner peace and confidence that wasn’t there before. It’s a shift in perspective that not only reduces stress but also fosters self-acceptance and authenticity.

Adopting this stoic habit can liberate you from the pressure of public opinion and allow you to live your life true to yourself.

5) Future uncertainties

Have you ever found yourself worrying about the uncertainty of the future?

The stoic philosopher Seneca once said, “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.”(Ad Lucilium Epistulae Morales,1917)

This encapsulates the stoic approach to future uncertainties.

Stoics understand that worrying about the future is not only unproductive but also robs us of our present joy. They choose to embrace the present moment and let go of anxieties about what lies ahead.

It’s not about being reckless or ignoring potential risks, but about understanding that the future is largely out of our control. And that complaining or worrying about it won’t change the outcome.

6) A lack of material possessions

Picture this: You’ve spent years saving up for a luxury car, only to find out your neighbor just got the same model, but in a superior trim. Do you complain about it, or do you take it in stride?

Instead of complaining about not having the latest gadget or the fanciest car, stoics focus on cultivating virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance.

Seneca, a stoic philosopher, once wrote, “That which is too little for luxury, is abundantly enough for nature” (Seneca’s Morals, 1882)

This encapsulates the stoic attitude towards material possessions.

This doesn’t mean stoics don’t enjoy material things. They do but they don’t let these possessions dictate their happiness or self-worth.

By not complaining about material possessions, we can focus on what truly matters and find contentment within ourselves.

7) Inevitable change

Change is a constant in life. Seasons change, people change, circumstances change. Yet, for many, this reality of life often leads to complaints and discomfort.

Stoic individuals, however, have a remarkably different outlook.

They understand and accept it as an inevitable part of life. They embrace the concept of impermanence and view change not as a threat, but as an opportunity for growth and adaptation.

Adopting this mindset has been transformative for me. Instead of resisting change or complaining about it, I’ve learned to navigate it with grace and resilience. It’s not about passively accepting everything that comes your way, but about using change as a catalyst for personal development.

By accepting and embracing change rather than complaining about it, you too can cultivate resilience and adaptability, making you better equipped to navigate the ebbs and flows of life with tranquility and courage.