Have you ever asked yourself what sets successful people apart?
I certainly have.
Through conversations with these forward movers and some serious self-reflection, I’ve discovered a common thread – Stoicism.
These habits have revolutionized my outlook on life, instilling a sense of resilience and direction that was previously lacking.
They might just do the same for you.
Let’s get to ’em.
1) Practicing acceptance
Life is unpredictable, and things don’t always go according to plan. This unpredictability can be a source of stress and frustration if we allow it. But, by practicing acceptance, we can navigate these uncertain waters with grace and resilience.
The concept of acceptance is central to Stoic philosophy. As the Stoic philosopher Epictetus once said, “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)
This doesn’t mean we should be passive or resign ourselves to every situation. Instead, it’s about acknowledging reality as it is and then deciding how best to respond. It’s about understanding what we can control and what we cannot, and focusing our energy accordingly.
2) Embracing discomfort
Another habit I’ve noticed among those who continually progress in life is their willingness to embrace discomfort.
Comfort zones, while cozy and familiar, often limit our growth. Those who adopt Stoic principles understand this well. They recognize that discomfort is not a nuisance but an opportunity for self-improvement.
For me, this meant breaking away from the safety of familiar routines and taking on new challenges. Whether it was public speaking, starting a new project, or simply waking up an hour earlier to meditate, each instance of discomfort became a stepping stone towards growth.
This habit of embracing discomfort has been transformative for me. It’s brought about a sense of confidence and adaptability that I didn’t possess before.
3) Cultivating mindfulness
From observing successful individuals, it’s clear that they have mastered the art of mindfulness. It’s a habit that seems to be interwoven into their daily lives, influencing everything from their decision-making to their interactions with others.
The Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius once wrote, “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.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
This statement beautifully captures the essence of mindfulness – being fully present and appreciative of each moment.
Personally, cultivating mindfulness meant training myself to slow down, to focus on the here and now instead of constantly dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. It has been a journey of learning to find joy and peace in the present moment.
This simple yet powerful habit has had a profound impact on my life. It has brought clarity, reduced my stress levels, and most importantly, helped me appreciate life more deeply.
4) Valuing virtue over material possessions
Picture this: You’ve worked hard to acquire a wealth of material possessions, only to find that they don’t bring you the happiness you expected.
This is a scenario many of us can relate to, and it’s also a concept that Stoics strongly caution against. They believed that true happiness cannot be found in external things, but rather in virtue – in being good and doing good.
Valuing virtue over material possessions is a powerful habit that can lead to profound personal growth and lasting happiness.
5) Practicing gratitude
In the rush of life, it’s easy to overlook the positives and dwell on the negatives. This is where the Stoic habit of practicing gratitude comes into play.
Stoics often emphasized being grateful for what we have, rather than lamenting what we lack. This philosophy aligns with modern research, which suggests that gratitude can significantly increase our happiness and reduce anxiety and depression.
Practicing gratitude has had a profound impact on my overall happiness and sense of well-being. It’s fostered a more positive mindset, improved my relationships, and helped me navigate through challenges with greater resilience.
It’s a small habit that has made a big difference.
6) Living in accordance with nature
Have you ever noticed how everything in nature seems to have a rhythm, a certain order?
One of the fundamental principles of Stoicism is living in accordance with nature. This doesn’t simply mean hiking in the woods or swimming in the sea (though these can be part of it). It’s about understanding our place in the world, recognizing our limitations, and aligning ourselves with the natural flow of life.
Living in accordance with nature is a practice that requires self-reflection and acceptance. But its rewards are a deeper understanding of life and inner peace.
7) Learning from adversity
Life is full of ups and downs. But what sets those who continually move forward apart is their ability to learn from adversity.
Stoics saw hardship not as a setback, but as an opportunity for growth. They believed that every challenge carries a lesson, and it’s our job to uncover and learn from it.
As put by Seneca “manliness gains much strength by being challenged” (Ad Lucilium Epistulae Morales,1917)
For me, this meant changing my perspective on difficulties. Instead of seeing them as obstacles, I began to view them as stepping stones towards growth. This shift in mindset turned every setback into a learning experience.
This habit has made me more resilient and adaptable. It’s helped me bounce back from disappointments and move forward with greater determination.
Learning from adversity is a powerful habit that can transform our lives and propel us towards success.
The bottom line
In essence, these nine simple Stoic habits can serve as your roadmap to unwavering progress in life. Start embracing them today and witness the transformative change they bring.
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.
