Life can sometimes feel like an unpredictable roller coaster, right?
One moment, we’re on a high, and the next, we’re plummeting into a low. But what if there was a different approach to navigating life’s ups and downs?
Well, Stoicism might just hold the key. It has helped me immensely, at least.
In this article, we’ll explore seven key Stoic habits that could potentially revolutionize your life, too.
These aren’t quick fixes or shortcuts; they’re habits that require commitment, persistence, and even a bit of courage. But the rewards can be significant – think increased happiness, fulfillment, and a newfound sense of control over your life.
Let’s dive in.
01 Radical acceptance
Ever found yourself stuck in traffic, late for an important meeting, and cursing the universe for conspiring against you?
We’ve all been there. But here’s a question: does your frustration change the situation, or does it just spike your blood pressure?
Stoics believe in accepting reality as it is, not as we wish it to be. This doesn’t mean being passive or giving up. Rather, it’s about recognizing what is within our control (our actions and reactions) and what isn’t (traffic jams, weather, other people’s actions).
This radical acceptance can free us from unnecessary stress and frustration, helping us to make rational decisions instead of getting swept up in emotional turmoil.
So next time you find yourself boiling with frustration at circumstances beyond your control, take a deep breath and ask yourself: “Can I change this situation?”. If not, channel your energy into something that is within your control, like your response to the situation.
02 Daily reflection
Not so long ago, I found myself feeling overwhelmed and lost as if I was just going through the motions. That’s when I stumbled upon a Stoic practice that turned things around for me: daily reflection.
Stoicism encourages us to set aside time each day for self-reflection. It’s about reviewing our actions, our thoughts, and our emotions with a sense of objectivity and honesty. Did we live in accordance with our values today? Where did we go wrong, and how can we improve?
This practice isn’t about dwelling on our mistakes or beating ourselves up over them; it’s about learning from them and using that learning to grow. By taking a few moments each day to reflect on our actions, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and make more conscious and intentional decisions moving forward.
03 Focusing on our reactions to events, not the events themselves
It’s so easy to get swept up in the storm of emotions. One negative comment or a minor setback can send us spiralling into a bad mood or even ruin our entire day.
However, Stoicism teaches us to develop emotional resilience. How?
Well, Stoics believe that we cannot control what happens to us, but we can control how we react to it. This means that instead of letting external events dictate our mood, we should focus on managing our internal responses.
With this mindset, we can navigate life’s ups and downs with a sense of calm and balance, without letting our emotions get the best of us.
04 Being indifferent towards external things
Stoics believe that true happiness comes from within and that it’s independent of our material possessions or social standing. They argue that while these external things can bring temporary pleasure, they can also bring disappointment and stress when they inevitably change or go away.
By practicing indifference towards external things, we can focus on what truly matters – our character, our actions, and our responses to the world around us. This doesn’t mean we should shun all material possessions or social connections. Instead, it’s about not allowing them to dictate our happiness or self-worth.
When you find yourself longing for the latest gadget or comparing your success to others, take a step back. Remind yourself that these things are fleeting and that your true value lies in your character and your actions.
05 Focusing on the present moment
In our busy lives, it’s easy to get caught up in worrying about the future or regretting the past. But Stoicism teaches us the value of focusing on the present moment.
Stoics believe that the present is all we truly have. The past is gone and cannot be changed, and the future is uncertain and largely out of our control. It’s only in the present that we have the power to act and make a difference.
By focusing on the present, we can fully engage with our lives and appreciate the beauty of each moment. It also helps us to make more conscious decisions, as we are not distracted by past regrets or future anxieties.
06 Embracing impermanence
Stoicism teaches us to embrace the concept of impermanence, the idea that all things are in a constant (but natural) state of flux.
This perspective can be incredibly liberating, particularly when we face challenging times or overwhelming emotions. Understanding and accepting that nothing is permanent helps us maintain a balanced perspective.
When we face hardships, recognizing that they are temporary can alleviate some of their weight and help us endure. Similarly, when we experience moments of joy, acknowledging their fleeting nature encourages us to appreciate them more deeply.
This mindset can also help prevent us from becoming overly attached to material possessions, status, or even specific outcomes.
07 Striving for personal excellence
Stoicism places a strong emphasis on self-improvement and the development of one’s character.
It teaches that true happiness and fulfillment come not from external achievements or possessions but from living in alignment with our deepest values. This approach involves a continuous effort to better oneself through practices such as wisdom, courage, and self-discipline.
By focusing on personal excellence, Stoics aim to navigate life’s challenges with grace and to ensure their actions reflect their core principles. This practice not only enhances one’s ability to remain composed during adversity but also ensures a life led with purpose and integrity.
Adopting this mindset helps us make thoughtful decisions and respond to life’s complexities with a balanced and thoughtful approach, fostering a profound sense of fulfillment and inner peace.
The bottom line
Stoicism isn’t just an ancient philosophy; it’s a practical toolkit for navigating life’s ups and downs.
Adopting these Stoic habits has significantly enhanced my life. It might do the same for you.
Change doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience and consistency. But the rewards – increased happiness, resilience, and a profound sense of peace – are well worth the effort.
We would love to hear about your journey with Stoicism. Have you tried any of these habits? How have they transformed your life?
Share your experiences in the comments below. Your insights could inspire others on their own journey towards self-improvement.
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.
