Getting older comes with its own set of challenges, but it also opens the door to a deeper appreciation from those around us. How we respond to life’s ups and downs, our behavior and our attitude can significantly influence that appreciation.
One philosophy that seems to resonate with those who grow more admired as they age is Stoicism. These individuals tend to adopt certain behaviors that not only help them navigate life’s turbulence with grace, but also earn them the respect and admiration of others.
In this article, we’ll be looking at some of these Stoic behaviors that often lead to increased appreciation as we age. And remember, it’s never too late to start cultivating these qualities.
1) Embracing change
Change is a constant in life and yet, many of us struggle with it.
The fear of uncertainty and the unknown can often leave us feeling stressed and anxious. But those who grow more appreciated with age have a different perspective.
They embrace the Stoic view of change as a natural and inevitable part of life.
Stoics believe that we don’t have control over the events that happen to us, but we do have control over how we respond to them. This means accepting change, rather than resisting it.
By doing so, they manage to navigate through life’s ups and downs with a calm and composed demeanor. This attitude not only helps them deal with challenges but also earns them the respect and admiration of others.
Remember, as the saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” So why not embrace it?
2) Practicing mindfulness
Mindfulness – the ability to be fully present and engaged in the moment – is a key Stoic behavior. It’s about observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
I remember a time when I was juggling a demanding job, caring for my ailing mother, and trying to maintain my own sanity. The stress was overwhelming. It was then I stumbled upon Stoicism and the concept of mindfulness.
As I started practicing mindfulness, I learned to focus on the present, instead of worrying about the past or the future. This helped me stay calm, make better decisions, and handle stress more effectively.
People started noticing a change in me. I was no longer the frazzled, stressed-out individual struggling to keep up. Instead, I became someone who could face adversity with a calm and composed demeanor.
Mindfulness not only improved my mental well-being but also increased the respect and appreciation I received from others. And that’s the power of adopting these Stoic behaviors as we age.
3) Focusing on what they can control
Stoics have a clear understanding of what is within their control and what isn’t. They focus their energy and efforts on aspects they can influence, and accept the things they cannot.
This approach is rooted in the famous “Serenity Prayer” which is often associated with various 12-step programs. The prayer asks for the serenity to accept the things one cannot change, the courage to change the things one can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
By adopting this mindset, those who grow more appreciated with age avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety. They’re able to remain calm, composed, and focused, even in the face of adversity. This earns them respect and admiration from others who often struggle with the unpredictability of life.
4) Emphasizing virtue and character
In today’s world where material possessions and social status often take precedence, Stoics remind us of the importance of virtue and character.
Stoics believe that our character is the only thing we truly own. Wealth, status, and even our health can be taken away from us, but our character? That remains.
People who grow more appreciated as they age often embody this Stoic behavior. They focus on being just, courageous, wise, and self-disciplined. They understand that these virtues are not only essential for personal growth but also for earning respect and admiration from others.
By prioritizing virtue and character over material possessions or social status, they not only enrich their own lives but also positively impact those around them.
5) Showing gratitude
Gratitude is a cornerstone of Stoic philosophy. It’s about appreciating what you have, rather than focusing on what you don’t.
Those who grow more appreciated with age often exhibit a deep sense of gratitude. They appreciate the simple joys of life, the kindness of others, and even the challenges that life throws at them. They see each experience, good or bad, as an opportunity to learn and grow.
This heartfelt gratitude radiates from them, touching the lives of those around them. It creates a positive, uplifting environment that people naturally gravitate towards.
By showing gratitude, they not only enrich their own lives but also inspire others to adopt a more appreciative and positive outlook on life.
6) Accepting imperfections
Nobody’s perfect. We all have flaws, make mistakes, and experience failures. But it’s how we handle our imperfections that truly defines us.
There was a time when I used to be hard on myself for every little mistake. The fear of failure and the pursuit of perfection was taking a toll on my mental health.
Upon discovering Stoicism, I learned to accept my imperfections. Stoics believe that it’s our flaws and failures that make us human and teach us valuable life lessons.
By embracing my imperfections, I was able to overcome my fear of failure and grow as an individual. This newfound acceptance not only improved my mental well-being but also deepened the respect and admiration I received from others.
Accepting our imperfections is a Stoic behavior that allows us to lead authentic lives and earn the appreciation of others as we age.
7) Cultivating resilience
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, and it’s a trait that Stoics hold in high regard.
Stoics understand that life is filled with challenges and hardships. Instead of letting these difficulties knock them down, they use them as opportunities to grow and strengthen their character.
People who grow more appreciated as they age often demonstrate this resilience. They face life’s ups and downs with courage and determination, inspiring others with their unwavering spirit.
By cultivating resilience, they not only navigate through life’s storms with grace but also earn the respect and admiration of others. This Stoic behavior serves as a valuable lesson for us all – when life gets tough, we too can choose to be resilient.
8) Living according to nature
At the core of Stoic philosophy is the concept of living according to nature. This means accepting the world as it is, not as we wish it to be, and aligning our actions with our true nature as rational and social beings.
Those who grow more appreciated with age often embody this Stoic behavior. They accept life’s realities without complaint, make rational decisions, and value their relationships with others.
Living according to nature enables them to lead authentic and meaningful lives. It earns them respect and admiration from others and leaves a lasting impact long after they’re gone.
This is perhaps the most important Stoic behavior we can adopt as we age – to live authentically, in harmony with our true nature.
The wisdom of Stoicism
Stoicism is more than just a philosophy; it’s a way of life that can guide us towards a meaningful, fulfilling existence.
The Stoic behaviors we’ve discussed don’t just make us more appreciated as we age, but also help us navigate the challenges of life with grace and resilience.
Remember the words of the great Stoic philosopher Seneca: “As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters.”
So as we age, let’s strive not just for longevity, but for a life well-lived. Let’s embrace change, practice mindfulness, focus on what we can control, emphasize virtue, show gratitude, accept our imperfections, cultivate resilience, and live according to nature.
In doing so, we not only earn the appreciation of others but also find contentment and joy in our own lives. After all, isn’t that what truly matters?
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.
