Ever felt like a ball of endless anxiety?
I used to be that way.
Trust me, it was not a fun experience. But things have changed since then, thanks to some ancient wisdom.
I’ve always been curious about different philosophies and their potential effects on my life. When I came across Stoicism, I was intrigued.
These weren’t just theories or vague principles – they were practical, easy-to-understand practices that seemed to have the potential to actually change my life.
So, I decided to give them a shot. These 6 Stoic practices did more than just quell my anxiety – they revolutionized my outlook on life.
Want to know what they are?
Let’s get into it.
1) Understanding what’s in my control
My journey towards a less anxious life began with a simple yet profound Stoic concept: distinguishing what’s within my control from what’s not.
This might sound a tad simplistic, but believe me, it was a game-changer. We often worry about things beyond our control, and this only fuels anxiety.
This isn’t just about acknowledging your limitations. It’s about directing your energy and focus towards areas where you can make a real difference.
Grasping what’s in your control sets the foundation for a more peaceful mind, providing clarity and freeing us from unnecessary worry. It’s not just about what you can do; it’s about recognizing what you can’t and being okay with it.
By incorporating this practice into my life, I’ve noted a substantial decrease in my anxiety levels.
It’s a basic principle, but its effect is truly transformative.
2) Embracing acceptance
As I delved deeper into Stoicism, I stumbled upon another practice that significantly reduced my anxiety – the act of acceptance.
This was tough initially. Accepting things, especially the unpleasant ones, is never easy. But the more I practiced, the more I realized its power.
Reading Epictetus introduced me to this Stoic teaching. His words resonated with me: “Ask not that events should happen as you will, but let your will be that events should happen as they do, and you shall have peace.” (The Discourses of Epictetus, 1916)
The virtue of acceptance isn’t just about tolerating situations or giving in; it’s about understanding that some events are simply part of life’s ebb and flow.
Embracing acceptance allows you to navigate life with a more serene mindset, acknowledging that every experience – good or bad – has a role in shaping you. It’s not about what happens to you; it’s about how you react to it.
3) Practicing mindfulness
According to research, mindfulness can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This finding resonated with my own journey towards Stoicism.
Mindfulness, a core aspect of Stoicism, isn’t just about being present in the moment. It’s about acknowledging our thoughts and feelings without judgment or resistance.
It is not just about sitting quietly with your thoughts but observing them without getting entangled. It’s about being an impartial observer of your own mind.
The practice of mindfulness has given me a more profound understanding of my thought patterns and emotional triggers, leading to better control over my anxiety.
It’s a subtle practice, but its impact is far-reaching.
4) Journaling my thoughts
Stoics like Marcus Aurelius kept journals to record their thoughts and reflect on their actions. Inspired by this practice, I decided to give it a shot.
Each day, I now sit with my journal, not just to document the day’s happenings, but to explore my thoughts, feelings, and responses. This practice has been an enlightening voyage into the depths of my psyche.
Journaling has become more than just an exercise in reflection; it’s become a mechanism for self-analysis and understanding.
This deep introspection has helped me identify what triggers my anxiety and how I react to it. Now, I can better manage these triggers and reactions.
Moreover, journaling provides a tranquil space amidst life’s chaos—a space where I can connect with myself on a deeper level.
This seemingly simple act of writing down my thoughts has been transformative. It has significantly reduced my anxiety levels and brought a sense of calmness into my life.
5) Mastering negative visualization
Sounds counterintuitive, right? Why would someone intentionally visualize negative outcomes?
But here lies the paradox – by regularly confronting our fears and anxieties, we’re able to reduce their power over us.
Negative visualization isn’t about dwelling on negativity; it’s about preparing for it. It’s like a fire drill for life’s challenges and uncertainties.
And often, I realize that the worst that can happen isn’t as bad as I had imagined.
This practice has allowed me to face my fears head-on and develop resilience towards them.
6) Adopting an attitude of gratitude
“Do not think of what are absent as though they were not existing, but 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.” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
The final Stoic practice that has helped me control my anxiety is adopting an attitude of gratitude.
The Stoics placed great importance on valuing what we already have instead of constantly seeking more. They believed that by appreciating the present, we can find contentment.
This is also backed up by modern experts and has been shown to reduce anxiety.
Every day, I now take a few moments to reflect on what I’m grateful for. This simple act has shifted my focus from what’s lacking or uncertain to what’s present and certain.
Adopting an attitude of gratitude has not just reduced my anxiety but has also brought a greater sense of joy and satisfaction into my life.
It’s a simple practice, but its impact on my mental well-being has been immense.
The bottom line
Embracing Stoic practices has been my key to unlocking a less anxious life. It’s not about eradicating anxiety completely but learning to manage it.
Try them – they might just work for you too.
As always, I hope you found some value in this post. If so, you might want to join our newsletter below to stay updated. Basically, we send insights like this directly to your inbox on a regular (but not too regular) basis.
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.
