There’s a clear distinction between merely existing and truly living.
The difference lies in our habits. Just going through the motions doesn’t cut it. We need to adopt practices that foster inner peace and contentment.
Stoicism, an ancient philosophy, offers habits that do precisely this. They’re simple yet profound, and they promise a happier life.
Let’s dive in and uncover these transformative habits.
1) Embrace the present
In our fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to get caught up in what’s next. We’re constantly chasing goals, deadlines, and dreams. But Stoicism teaches us a different approach.
The Stoics understood the importance of living in the now. This ancient philosophy emphasizes the value of the present moment and encourages us to fully experience it.
The past is already gone, and the future isn’t here yet. The only thing we truly have control over is the present.
So instead of fretting about what’s to come or dwelling on past mistakes, Stoicism urges us to focus on the here and now.
Practicing being present can significantly boost your happiness levels as it allows you to fully appreciate life as it unfolds.
Try it out today – take a deep breath, look around you, and immerse yourself in the present moment. You might just find that happiness has been there all along.
2) Accept what you can’t control
This is a lesson I’ve learned the hard way. As someone who used to obsess over the minutiae of life, I’d often find myself stressed and unhappy about things beyond my control.
Stoicism, however, taught me a different perspective. It emphasized the importance of distinguishing between what we can control and what we can’t. And it’s a game changer.
For example, I used to worry endlessly about the weather ruining my outdoor plans. But then I realized: Can I control the weather? Of course not. So why waste energy fretting over it?
Instead, I now focus on what I can control – my reactions. I’ve learned to adapt my plans according to the weather and have even started enjoying those rainy days indoors with a good book.
This simple shift in mindset – accepting what you can’t control and focusing on what you can – lifts a huge weight off your shoulders and paves the way for true happiness. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely worth it.
3) Give thanks
“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)
Gratitude is a cornerstone of many philosophical teachings, including Stoicism. The practice of giving thanks not only enhances our overall well-being but also aligns with the Stoic emphasis on appreciating what we have rather than lamenting what we lack.
Stoics advocate for a mindful appreciation of life’s blessings, big and small. This involves recognizing and valuing the contributions of others, the beauty of nature, and the simple pleasures that each day brings. By routinely acknowledging these gifts, we cultivate a more resilient and positive mindset.
Start by integrating a gratitude practice into your daily routine. Each morning or evening, take a few moments to reflect on three things you are grateful for.
These can range from significant events, like the support of a loved one, to everyday comforts, such as a warm cup of coffee. Over time, this practice will help shift your focus from what’s missing or undesirable in your life to the abundance that’s already present.
4) Practice daily reflection
Reflection is a powerful tool. It allows us to review our actions, learn from our mistakes, and make better decisions in the future.
The Stoics understood this. They made it a habit to reflect on their actions and thoughts each day.
They would ask themselves questions like: “What did I do well today? Where did I falter? How can I improve?”
This practice of daily reflection fosters self-awareness and personal growth. It helps us become better versions of ourselves, leading to increased happiness over time.
Take a few minutes each day to reflect on your actions and behaviors. You might be surprised by the insights you gain and the happiness it brings.
5) Value virtue over external pleasures
There was a time when I sought happiness in external pleasures. Fancy clothes, exotic vacations, expensive gadgets – I thought these were the keys to happiness. But no matter what I acquired, the joy was fleeting and left me wanting more.
Then, I discovered Stoicism and its concept of valuing virtue over pleasure. According to the Stoics, the good life lies in living virtuously – in being kind, honest, just, and courageous.
So I decided to shift my focus. Instead of chasing after fleeting pleasures, I started working on my character. I started practicing kindness, honesty, and courage in my daily life.
And guess what? The contentment I found in living virtuously far exceeded the temporary joy derived from external pleasures.
6) Practice negative visualization
This might sound counterintuitive, but bear with me. Stoics used a technique called ‘negative visualization’ to boost their happiness.
So how does this work?
Well, it involves imagining losing the things you take for granted. By imagining losing what we have, we can renew our appreciation and happiness for them.
For instance, think about your ability to see or hear. We often take these senses for granted, but if we were to lose them, our lives would drastically change. By contemplating this, we learn to appreciate the everyday miracles we often overlook.
7) Embrace impermanence
“There is a kind of river of things passing into being, and Time is a violent torrent. For no sooner is each seen, than it has been carried away and another is being carried by, and that, too, will be carried away.” Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 19
Everything in life is temporary. This is a fundamental truth that Stoicism teaches us to embrace.
People come and go, circumstances change, even our own bodies and minds are constantly evolving. Rather than resisting this, we should accept and appreciate the impermanence of life.
When we understand and embrace the fact that everything is transient, we learn to value every moment. We start to cherish our relationships more, appreciate our accomplishments, and even find strength in our failures.
Final reflection: The power of choice
Stoicism doesn’t promise a life devoid of challenges, but it equips us with the mindset to face those challenges with equanimity. It reminds us that while we cannot control the world around us, we can control our reactions to it.
The philosopher Epictetus once said, “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” It’s a sentiment echoed time and again in Stoic teachings.
The habits discussed in this article aren’t just theoretical concepts. They’re practical tools for living a happier life. Tools that require nothing but conscious choice and consistent practice.
Next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or unhappy, remember – you have the choice. You can choose to practice these Stoic habits and cultivate a mindset of resilience, acceptance, and joy.
The journey towards happiness begins with a single step. And that step is yours to take.
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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.
