Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of everyday life? Or found yourself constantly planning for the future, missing out on the beauty of the present?
If so, this one’s for you.
Today, we dive into the transformative power of Stoic habits. They have brought serenity to my life and might just do the same for you.
Maybe you practice all of them already. Let’s find out.
1) Embracing the present moment
“Each of us lives only in the present, this brief moment; the rest is either a life that is past or is an uncertain future” Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Living in a world that’s constantly rushing towards the next big thing, it’s easy to get swept up in the future. But in doing so, we often lose touch with the here and now.
Stoic philosophy emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment. It’s one of the key teachings I’ve gleaned from reading works of Stoic thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus.
For me, this habit is not just about mindfulness or meditation. It’s about cultivating an awareness of your current circumstances and appreciating them, without incessantly worrying about the future or dwelling on the past.
This practice is about recognizing that the only time we truly have is now, and making the most of it. It’s about understanding that our ability to control or predict future events is limited, and coming to peace with that.
Since instilling this habit into my daily routine, I’ve experienced a noticeable increase in my overall sense of peace and contentment.
It might seem like a small shift, but its effect is truly transformative.
2) Cultivating indifference to externals
“Regard for any external thing, whatever it be, makes you subservient to another.” Epictetus (The Discourses of Epictetus, 1916)
The second Stoic habit that has profoundly impacted my life is learning to cultivate indifference to externals.
In today’s society, we’re often led to believe that happiness and success hinge on external factors—money, status, possessions.
But diving into Stoic philosophy, reading the teachings of Seneca and Epictetus, I’ve discovered a different perspective. These Stoics champion the idea that our well-being doesn’t depend on external circumstances, but on how we interpret and respond to them.
This realization was not just enlightening—it was liberating.
This habit is not about becoming indifferent to life or people around you. Instead, it’s about understanding what’s within your control—your thoughts, your reactions—and focusing on that.
It’s about recognizing that while we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we respond. And that makes all the difference.
With this shift in perspective, I found myself less perturbed by life’s ups and downs. I learned to find peace within myself, regardless of the chaos outside. Maybe you can, too.
3) Practicing negative visualization
This one may seem counterintuitive, but it’s a practice deeply rooted in Stoic philosophy. The Stoics called it ‘premeditatio malorum’, or premeditation of evils.
In essence, this habit involves contemplating the possible challenges or misfortunes that may come your way. Not as a means to induce anxiety or fear, but as a tool to better appreciate what you have and prepare for life’s inevitable adversities.
It’s not about being pessimistic – it’s about being prepared, appreciative, and resilient. It’s about turning what could be a source of worry into a catalyst for growth.
4) Reflecting on mortality
“We ought to take into account not only the fact that day by day life is being spent and a small balance remaining” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Have you ever pondered on the impermanence of life?
It may seem morbid, but reflecting on mortality is a key aspect of Stoic philosophy, a practice known as ‘memento mori’ or ‘remember you must die’.
Rather than being a cause for despair, contemplating our mortality can actually be a powerful catalyst for change. It reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, urging us to live fully and authentically.
For me, this habit is not about dwelling on death in a gloomy way. Instead, it’s about using this awareness as motivation to make the most of each day and to focus on what truly matters.
Knowing that our time is limited can help us to prioritize our actions, discard trivial concerns, and appreciate the present moment.
Since embracing this practice, I’ve found myself more driven to pursue my passions, more grateful for everyday blessings, and more resilient in the face of adversity.
It’s a sobering thought, but one that brings clarity and purpose. It’s a reminder to live each day to its fullest, because none of us know how many we have left.
5) Adopting an attitude of gratitude
Gratitude might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Stoicism, but it’s a practice that Stoics highly value.
The Stoic philosophers often spoke about the importance of being grateful for what we have, as opposed to constantly craving more. They believed that an attitude of gratitude leads to contentment and peace of mind.
This habit isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges or pretending they don’t exist. Rather, it’s about acknowledging the good in our lives and appreciating it. As Marcus Aurelius wrote:
“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)
In my own journey, cultivating gratitude has involved making a conscious effort each day to recognize and appreciate the positive aspects of my life. From the simple pleasure of a warm cup of coffee to the love and support of family and friends, there is always something to be thankful for.
Since incorporating this practice into my routine, I’ve noticed a significant shift in my mindset. I’ve become more positive, more resilient in the face of adversity, and overall, more content with my life.
It’s a simple habit, but its impact is profound. In focusing on what we have rather than what we lack, we can find joy and satisfaction in everyday life.
The bottom line
Embracing the power of perspective is not always straightforward, but its impact on our mindset and overall well-being is profound.
In the end, it’s all about incorporating these Stoic habits into your life and experiencing the transformative power they hold. It’s about finding inner peace amidst external chaos, cultivating resilience, and leading a life of purpose and fulfillment. So why not start today?
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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.
